New Delhi: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has informed the Central Information Commission (CIC) that it does not possess any records indicating whether the Mughal-era Jama Masjid Sambhal was constructed after demolishing an earlier structure or on vacant land.

In response to an RTI application filed by Satya Prakash Yadav, the ASI said that “no such information is available in this office” regarding the nature of the land, ownership details at the time of construction, or documents granting rights over the site.

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The applicant had also sought details on constructions at the time the monument was taken under protection, subsequent additions, and past disputes. The ASI stated that such information was not available in its records.

However, during first appeal proceedings, the ASI referred to a 2018 incident in which an “illegal” steel railing was being erected at the site. It said work was halted as no new construction is permitted within a protected monument area.

On the period of construction, the ASI said, “Jama Masjid Sambhal was constructed in the year 1526,” citing its records. It added that the monument has been protected under the same name since it was brought under ASI protection in 1920 through a gazette notification. “At present, it exists as a mosque,” the department said.

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The CIC upheld the ASI’s stand, noting that the RTI Act requires disclosure only of existing records and does not oblige public authorities to create or collect information not maintained by them. It found no grounds for further intervention and dismissed the appeal.

The mosque remains at the centre of a legal dispute over claims that it was built over an ancient temple. The issue gained national attention after violence in Sambhal on November 24, 2024, during protests against a court-ordered ASI survey, which left four people dead and several injured.

Q. When was Sambhal Jama Masjid built?

ASI records say it was constructed in 1526.

Q. Does ASI have proof it was built over a temple?

No, ASI told CIC it has no such records.

Q. When did ASI take the mosque under protection?

The monument has been protected since 1920.

Q. What did the CIC rule?

CIC said RTI applies only to existing records and dismissed the appeal.