Sambhal revives 'Mrityu Kup' in Kot Purvi to preserve historical religious sites

The structure is located close to the Shahi Jama Masjid, a court-ordered survey of which led to violence last month

In their attempt to restore 68 pilgrimage sites and 19 ancient wells, the administration in Sambhal on Thursday commenced the renovation and excavation of the ancient "Mrityu Kup" (well of death) at Kot Purvi.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to identify and restore wells that are believed to hold great religious and spiritual significance. According to locals, the well was abandoned several years ago and filled with debris, which will be cleared.

The well is not only a historic landmark but also a sacred site where devotees believe they can attain salvation by bathing, the locals told PTI.

The well is deeply embedded in the region's spiritual fabric, with locals holding it in high regard for its mythological importance.

"Thursday marks the beginning of the excavation of the Mrityu Kup, a very ancient and revered site. The excavation is being carried out with the cooperation of the Nagar Palika. The well is immensely popular, and its renovation will further strengthen our faith. The district administration has been highly supportive in ensuring the development of this important cultural and religious landmark," local councillor Gagan Varshney said.

The excavation and renovation of the "Mrityu Kup" is expected to bolster Sambhal's religious tourism prospects, local officials claim.

The structure is located close to the Shahi Jama Masjid, a court-ordered survey of which led to violence last month, leaving four people dead.

The violence broke out after protesters clashed with security personnel during the survey of the Mughal-era mosque.

The protesters torched vehicles and pelted stones at police, who used tear gas and batons to disperse the mob. Around 20 security personnel had sustained injuries in the clash and the deputy collector had fractured his leg, officials had said.

Internet services were suspended in the district because of the violence.

Images shared on social media showed protesters pelting stones at the security personnel from atop buildings and in front of the Shahi Jama Masjid. Later, police personnel were purportedly seen cornering and hitting people as they tried to disperse a large crowd from a narrow alleyway. Visuals also showed a lane strewn with many slippers, bricks and stones. In another clip, some police personnel in riot gear were purportedly seen firing gunshots towards a lane while flames leapt, and smoke billowed into the air in the background.

Several people were detained in connection with the violence.

Tension was brewing in Sambhal since the mosque was surveyed on the orders of a local court following a petition that claimed that a Harihar temple stood at the site previously.