Ujjain Shahi Masjid Demolition Sparks Clashes, Stone-Pelting During Road-Widening Drive

Tensions escalated in Ujjain after a large group gathered to oppose the demolition of a portion of the Shahi Masjid for a road-widening project ahead of the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh. Stone-pelting and clashes with police were reported, prompting the use of tear gas. Over 2,000 police personnel were deployed and at least 10 people were detained. Authorities said the mosque committee had agreed to remove the affected portion, while the Ujjain City Qazi appealed for peace. The Madhya Pradesh High Court had dismissed a challenge to the proposed demolition, noting an agreement between the mosque management and the Municipal Corporation.