Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh) [India]: The ancient Lord Shiva temple in Sambhal, which remained closed for 42 years, has been reopened and is undergoing restoration to its original structure, as announced by Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra.
“The temple premises have been cleaned, electricity arrangements have been made, and CCTVs are being installed for security. The anti-encroachment drive targeted only structures built on public property. We will restore the temple to its original structure,” SDM Mishra said, adding that police will be deployed near the temple for security purposes.
She also confirmed that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been informed about the temple’s restoration.
The temple was rediscovered during an inspection by district authorities addressing encroachment complaints. Sambhal Circle Officer (CO) Anuj Kumar Chaudhary stated, “We received information about encroachment on a temple in the area. Upon inspection, we discovered a temple at the site.”
District Magistrate (DM) Rajendra Pensiya, who visited the site, revealed that an ancient well was uncovered beneath a ramp that had been constructed over it. “The (ancient Lord Shiva) temple is being cleaned. A ramp had been built over the ancient well. When we dismantled the ramp, the well was revealed,” he explained.
The DM added that the temple will be handed over to the community it belongs to, and legal action will be taken against those involved in its encroachment.
Local Community Perspective
Vishnu Sharan Rastogi, patron of the Nagar Hindu Sabha, shared insights into the temple’s history. “The temple of Lord Shiva has been closed since 1978 because no priests were willing to stay there. Around 15-20 families who used to live in the Khaggu Sarai area left, and the temple fell into neglect. It remained closed until today,” Rastogi told ANI.
The reopening of this ancient temple marks a significant cultural and historical milestone for the region, with authorities actively working to preserve and protect its heritage.