The Shahi Jama Masjid, located in Sambhal, has been at the center of dispute following claims that it was constructed on the ruins of a Shri Hari temple allegedly demolished by the Mughal ruler Babur in the early 16th century.

The ASI submitted a response in the court, and raised concerns that unauthorized changes to the mosque's structure by the management committee are unlawful and should be restricted.

[16] The Hindu side's lawyer claimed that confusion over the routine draining of an ablution tank during the survey sparked tensions, leading to the belief among those gathered outside that excavation was taking place.

[17] The opposition MPs have made allegations that some people accompanying the court-appointed survey commission at the mosque chanted “Jai Shri Ram” to provoke Muslims,[18] in the presence of senior police and district officials, with a video of the incident posted by Akhilesh Yadav.

"[excessive quote][26] The Uttar Pradesh administration imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code in Sambhal to prevent further gatherings and potential violence.

[32][33] The Uttar Pradesh government constituted a three-member judicial commission, chaired by former Allahabad High Court judge Devendra Kumar Arora, to investigate the violence.

The commission visited Sambhal on 1 December, inspecting the affected areas to determine whether the incident was spontaneous or the result of a premeditated criminal conspiracy.