November 29, 2024: The Supreme Court has directed the trial court in the Sambhal mosque case to halt all proceedings until the Shahi Idgah Mosque Committee files an appeal with the Allahabad High Court. The order comes in response to concerns raised by the mosque committee regarding a survey of the mosque conducted by an advocate commissioner.

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court instructed the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure that "peace and harmony" are maintained in the Sambhal region, amidst ongoing tensions surrounding the issue. The court further specified that the trial court should take no further action concerning the mosque survey until January 8, 2025.

The apex court also advised the Shahi Idgah Mosque Committee to challenge the trial court's survey order at the High Court. It directed that the petition be listed for hearing within three days of filing. Additionally, the advocate commissioner's survey report, which is central to the dispute, will remain confidential.

"We hope and trust that the trial court will not take any further steps until the High Court reviews the case and issues appropriate orders," stated the Supreme Court in its ruling.

The case, which involves a dispute over the mosque and the legal status of the survey conducted by the advocate commissioner, has garnered significant attention. The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for January 6, 2025, while keeping the matter pending.

The development marks an important step in the legal proceedings, as both sides prepare for further legal battles over the mosque's future.