Ujjain News: Tension gripped parts of Ujjain on Monday, September 28, 2026, after a crowd clashed with police and pelted stones during protests against the partial removal of the Shahi Masjid, prompting police to fire tear gas shells. The action is linked to a road-widening project ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh in 2028.
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What Happened On The Ground
Reports say the crowd swelled on Sunday night after bulldozers were parked outside the mosque. On Monday morning, stone-pelting broke out as the Municipal Corporation began work, and police responded with tear gas, mild force and a lathi-charge. More than 18 tear gas shells were reportedly used. A female Station House Officer was injured, and Superintendent of Police Pradeep Sharma said some personnel suffered minor injuries before the situation came under control.
Over 2,500 police personnel, including Rapid Action Force units, were deployed. Roads within roughly 500 metres of the mosque were barricaded and a city-wide alert was issued. Community leaders have also issued video messages urging calm.
Police Action And Arrests
Police have registered an FIR against 10 people, five of them social media influencers accused of inflaming the situation, though their arrests are not yet confirmed. Five individuals from outside the area have reportedly been taken into custody.
The Road Project And The Dispute
Ujjain News: The administration says the alignment follows the Ujjain Development Plan and is needed to handle crowds near Mahakaleshwar Temple, including for events such as the Shahi Sawari and Peshwai. Reports differ on the scale of the affected portion. IANS describes a section of roughly 9 feet by 4 feet, while other reports say the wider project covers a 730-metre stretch affecting 272 structures, including the mosque’s prayer hall and minaret.