Fatehpur, Uttar Pradesh, August 11, 2025 – A heated dispute has erupted in Fatehpur’s Abu Nagar, Redaiya Mohalla, over a 200-year-old structure known as the Nawab Abdul Samad Makbara. Hindu organizations claim it is a temple, while Muslim groups assert it is a historic tomb. The clash has sparked protests, vandalism, and a heavy police presence as authorities scramble to maintain order. Here’s a detailed look at the unfolding situation.
What Happened Today?
On Monday morning, members of Hindu organizations, including Bajrang Dal and the Math Mandir Sangharsh Samiti, gathered near the disputed site in Abu Nagar. They claimed the structure, officially recorded as a makbara (tomb), is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna. Led by local BJP district president Mukhlal Pal, the group marched from Dak Bungalow to the site, chanting Hanuman Chalisa and raising slogans for “temple restoration.” Some members entered the premises, performed an aarti, and allegedly damaged two small shrines (mazaars) inside and one outside. They also hoisted a saffron flag on the structure, escalating tensions.
In response, members of the Muslim community, who assert the site is a historic tomb of Nawab Abdul Samad, gathered in large numbers. They claim the structure has been a tomb for centuries, supported by government records listing it under Khasra Number 753. The situation turned chaotic when individuals from the Muslim side allegedly began pelting stones. No injuries were reported, but the unrest left the local administration scrambling to restore order.
Administration’s Response
District Magistrate Ravindra Singh and Superintendent of Police Anoop Kumar Singh rushed to the scene with a heavy police and PAC (Provincial Armed Constabulary) deployment. Despite prior barricading and security measures, the large crowd overwhelmed initial efforts to control the situation. Authorities eventually persuaded many from the Hindu side to disperse, while some Muslim community members remained at the site.
DM Ravindra Singh told reporters, “Our priority is to ensure law and order. The situation is now under control, and we are working to build trust among all communities.” SP Anoop Kumar Singh added that legal action is underway, with an FIR filed against 10 named individuals and 150 unidentified persons under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for vandalism, trespassing, and disturbing peace. Five special police teams have been formed to investigate and apprehend those involved.
Voices from Both Sides
Hindu organizations, backed by leaders like Manoj Trivedi of the Hindu Mahasabha, insist the site was originally a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Krishna. “This is a sacred place for us, and we will continue our fight to restore it,” Trivedi said during the protest.
Bareilly-based Maulana Shahabuddin Rizvi Barelvi sharply criticized the Hindu Mahasabha, accusing them of “desecrating” the tomb and demanding strict action. Meanwhile, Zeeshan Raza, district president of the Muslim Personal Law Board vowed to take the matter to the Supreme Court.
Historical Context and Legal Angle
This dispute echoes similar conflicts in India over religious sites, raising questions about historical claims and documentation. The Muslim side points to revenue records supporting their claim, while Hindu groups argue the site’s temple origins predate the tomb. Neither side has presented conclusive archaeological evidence yet, leaving the matter open to legal and historical scrutiny.
The Allahabad High Court’s recent rulings on other religious disputes in Fatehpur, such as the stay on the demolition of the Madina Masjid in April 2025, suggest that courts may play a key role in resolving this issue. For now, the administration is urging both sides to avoid further provocation and let the legal process take its course.
What’s Next?
As investigations continue, the Fatehpur administration is under pressure to prevent further unrest. The case has drawn attention across Uttar Pradesh, with social and political groups weighing in. Residents hope for a peaceful resolution, but the deep-rooted emotions tied to the site make it a challenging task.
