Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh) [India], October 1 (ANI): Ujjain Collector Roshan Kumar Singh on Thursday warned of strict action against those spreading rumours, misinformation after a portion of the Shahi Masjid at Chhatri Chowk “that falls within the project’s scope” sustained damage during the removal process.
Singh said the affected portion of the mosque fell within the scope of the road-widening project and clarified that there was no loss of life or injury in the incident.
“Regarding the road widening work, the section of the mosque at Chhatri Chowk that falls within the project’s scope–and was thus affected–sustained some damage during the removal process. However, there has been no loss of life, no injuries, and no one is trapped. Please do not pay heed to any rumours,” Singh said, according to the Ujjain Police PRO.
The Collector said religious and community leaders were present at the site and discussions with them were underway.
“If anyone spreads any kind of rumour or misinformation, or misleading news, strict action will be taken against them,” he said.
The development comes days after clashes broke out in Ujjain on September 28 during the removal of the portion of the Shahi Masjid falling within the alignment of the road-widening project. Police used tear gas and baton charges to disperse a crowd after incidents of stone pelting. Security was subsequently intensified around the mosque and other sensitive areas.
On Wednesday, nine people accused in connection with the stone-pelting were brought to the Ujjain district hospital for medical examination. District Hospital Medical Officer Dr Jitendra Sharma said all nine were examined and found to be in normal condition, with no external injuries.
Police personnel continued to remain deployed around the mosque, while an alert was maintained across the city.
Authorities have also been monitoring social media platforms amid concerns over misinformation linked to the dispute. Police have said fabricated or AI-generated content depicting the complete demolition of the mosque had circulated online and contributed to tensions.
The road-widening project is being undertaken ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh 2028, with the affected portion of the mosque being removed as part of the project alignment. (ANI)
Related reading
