Thousands of Muslims Protest Planned Demolition of 600-Year-Old Shahi Mosque in India

Thousands of Muslims gathered in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India, to protest the planned demolition of a portion of the historic Shahi Mosque, a religious site believed to date back to 1390. The mosque has become the centre of a growing dispute between local residents, mosque representatives and municipal authorities over a road-widening project linked to preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2028. The protests intensified as community members gathered inside and around the mosque, expressing concerns over the removal of a historic place of worship.

Why Is the Shahi Mosque Facing Demolition?

The Shahi Mosque is located in Ujjain, a city in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh known for its religious significance. Local authorities are carrying out infrastructure development and road-widening projects ahead of the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh festival, which is expected to attract millions of visitors.

The proposed road expansion affects a portion of the mosque complex, including parts of its prayer hall and a historic minaret. Authorities have stated that the project is intended to improve traffic movement, accessibility and public safety during the major religious gathering.

Reports indicate that approximately 272 structures have been identified for removal as part of the wider road-development initiative. The municipal administration has also pointed to the removal or adjustment of other religious and private structures along the affected route.

Muslims Gather to Oppose the Demolition

The proposed action has prompted strong opposition from local Muslim residents and mosque representatives. On September 26 and 27, large crowds gathered near the mosque, with some people reportedly remaining at the site overnight to oppose the planned demolition.

Community members have called on the administration to reconsider the decision and explore alternative routes for road expansion that would avoid affecting the historic mosque.

The demonstrations attracted attention beyond Ujjain, with political representatives also commenting on the issue. Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi criticised the proposed demolition, arguing that the historical and religious significance of the mosque should be considered while carrying out development projects.

High Court Case and Legal Dispute

The mosque's proposed demolition has also become a legal matter. Mosque representatives challenged the municipal authorities' decision before the Madhya Pradesh High Court. On September 9, 2026, the High Court rejected petitions challenging the removal of the affected portion, referring to the broader road-widening project and the treatment of other structures along the route.

However, mosque representatives pursued further legal proceedings, and another hearing was expected on September 28. The dispute has therefore continued alongside the administration's infrastructure work. The legal issue concerns the affected section of the mosque complex rather than the complete demolition of the entire building.

On September 28, tensions increased around the Shahi Mosque as demolition activity continued. Police and Rapid Action Force personnel were deployed in the area to maintain security and prevent further disturbances. Reports from Indian media said stone-pelting incidents occurred during clashes between protesters and police. 

Security personnel reportedly used tear gas to disperse the crowd. Authorities subsequently maintained a security perimeter around the mosque complex. Reports also indicated that members of the mosque committee had begun removing the affected section themselves under an understanding with the administration. However, protests and disagreements continued in the surrounding area.

The Shahi Mosque dispute has attracted attention because it involves the preservation of a centuries-old religious structure, urban development and the legal rights of religious institutions. For local Muslim residents, the mosque represents an important historical and religious site. Meanwhile, authorities have presented road expansion as part of preparations for the large-scale Simhastha gathering in 2028.

The situation highlights the challenges involved in balancing infrastructure development with the protection of historic religious properties and community concerns. As of September 28, 2026, security arrangements remained in place, while the dispute continued to draw public and political attention. The developments surrounding the Shahi Mosque are being closely followed as Ujjain prepares for its upcoming religious festival.

 Thousands of Muslims gathered in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India, to protest the planned demolition of a portion of the historic Shahi Mosque, a religious site believed to date back to 1390. The mosque has become the centre of a growing dispute between local residents, mosque representatives and municipal authorities over a road-widening project linked to preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2028. The protests intensified as community members gathered inside and around the mosque, expressing concerns over the removal of a historic place of worship.