Heavy security deployment was mounted in Sambhal on Friday in light of Jumma prayers, as well as the Babri demolition anniversary. Clerics appealed to the people to offer prayers in their local mosques and maintain peace in the area.
Sambhal erupted in violent clashes on November 24 following a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid in the Kot Garvi area of the city. Four people were killed in the confrontation and several were injured. The area has remained tense ever since.