Temple reopened in Sambhal after 45 years, following anti-encroachment drive

The temple, housing an idol of Lord Hanuman and a Shivling, was discovered during an anti-encroachment and electricity theft drive.

The Sambhal administration in Uttar Pradesh reopened the Bhasma Shankar temple on Friday, marking the first time since its closure in 1978 after communal riots displaced the local Hindu community. The temple, housing an idol of Lord Hanuman and a Shivling, was discovered during an anti-encroachment and electricity theft drive led by Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra.

Upon discovering the temple near the Shahi Jama Masjid, SDM Mishra informed district authorities, who decided to unlock the ancient site. Mishra stated, "This temple had been locked for decades. Local residents confirmed it has been closed since the 1978 riots."

The Bhasma Shankar temple, located in Khaggu Sarai, is believed to be over 500 years old. According to Vishnu Shankar Rastogi, an 82-year-old patron of the Nagar Hindu Mahasabha, the temple was central to the Rastogi community before the riots forced around 25–30 Hindu families to migrate.

Residents recalled the temple's importance, with Mukesh Rastogi noting its historical relevance: "It is an ancient temple that was closed long ago when only a particular community lived in the area."

The temple is just over a kilometer from the Jama Masjid in Kot Garvi, a site that recently witnessed violence on November 24 during a court-ordered survey. Four people were killed, and several others, including police personnel, were injured in the clashes.

The administration is also considering reopening a well located near the temple. Local residents expressed optimism about the temple’s revival, with one resident, Sanjay Sankhydhar, saying, "People’s sorrows were relieved by visiting here. Now they can visit again and earn the benefits of virtue."

The reopening of the temple coincides with a series of administrative measures in the area, including a crackdown on encroachments and power theft. Additionally, an imam from a nearby mosque was fined Rs 2 lakh for violating noise pollution regulations with a high-volume loudspeaker.

The Sambhal administration's actions aim to restore order and address longstanding issues in the region, while the temple's reopening holds significance for the local Hindu community seeking to reconnect with its heritage.