Discovery in Muslim-majority area prompts careful excavation and raises questions about historical context
Team Clarion
LUCKNOW – A centuries-old stepped well, or baori, has been unearthed during excavations in the Muslim-majority Lakshmanganj neighbourhood of Chandusi, Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, attracting the attention of the Archaeological Department and sparking local debate about its historical significance. The discovery comes amidst a backdrop of heightened scrutiny of the area following recent tensions surrounding the survey of Sambhal’s Jama Masjid.
The well was discovered during excavations that have been going on for the past four to five days. As the digging progressed, the structure of the well, complete with descending steps, gradually became visible. By Tuesday evening, ten steps leading down into the baori were clearly exposed.
Recognising the potential historical importance of the find, a team from the Archaeological Department visited the site on Wednesday. They decided to proceed with caution, replacing the use of heavy machinery like JCBs with manual labour for further excavation. This decision was taken to minimise the risk of damage to the delicate structure.
Krishan Kumar Sonkar, Executive Officer of Chandusi Municipality, confirmed the involvement of the Archaeological Department. “Five days of excavation were completed on Wednesday,” he said. “Our colleagues from the Archaeological Department are here. They are assessing the situation and considering the strategy for further action. Given the complexity of the structure that has been found, the JCB machine cannot be used now, so the services of labourers are being taken for manual excavation. So far, stairs and several doors have been found, but it cannot be said how long this operation will take.”
Initial estimates suggest the well covers an area of approximately 400 square meters and may be between 125 and 150 years old. There has been speculation about a possible link between the well and the “Bhisam Shankar” temple, which was recently reopened by the administration after being closed for 48 years.
The context of this discovery is significant. The Muslim-majority areas of Sambhal have been under increased scrutiny by the Uttar Pradesh government following violence that erupted during a survey of the Sambhal Jama Masjid. The reopening of the Bhisam Shankar temple after nearly five decades has further fuelled discussions. While the individual on whose land the temple is situated has stated that neither the closure nor the migration of Hindus from the area was due to pressure from the Muslim community, some observers suggest that the state government is attempting to promote Sambhal as a pilgrimage site.
The excavation of the well was initiated following a request from members of an organisation called “Sanatan Sevak Sangh” to the District Magistrate during a “Sampooran Samadhan Diwas” event. They claimed the existence of a baori on an empty plot near the temple.
A local resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed concern about the motivations behind the excavation: “While uncovering history is important, it feels like this is being used to create a certain narrative. We need to be careful that history is not being manipulated for political purposes.”
A member of the “Sanatan Sevak Sangh” involved in requesting the excavation stated: “We simply wanted to uncover our history. We believed there was a significant historical structure here, and we are pleased that it has been found.”
An independent historian commented: “Archaeological discoveries should be approached with academic rigour. It’s crucial to avoid jumping to conclusions about the historical context and to ensure that the process is conducted transparently and with respect for all communities.”
The ongoing excavation and subsequent analysis by the Archaeological Department will be crucial in determining the true age, purpose, and historical significance of the well. The situation remains sensitive, and careful consideration of all perspectives is essential to ensure that the discovery is treated with the respect and objectivity it deserves.
