The archaeology department report submitted to the Uttar Pradesh government states that the structures at Kasmandi Kalan date back to the 18th century
LUCKNOW — A survey conducted by the Uttar Pradesh State Archaeology Department at a disputed site in Kasmandi Kalan village of Malihabad has found evidence suggesting that the structures at the location include a mosque and graves dating back to the 18th century.
The survey report has been submitted to the Department of Tourism and Culture and it comes amid competing claims over the historical identity of the site.
According to sources, the report states that the structures, locally known as a mosque and mausoleum, were constructed using traditional lakhori bricks commonly associated with architectural styles of the 17th and 18th centuries.
The survey was ordered after claims made by Hindu organisations triggered controversy over the site’s origins. Members of the Lakhan Army and the Suheldev Army had alleged that the location was originally the fort of Raja Kansa Pasi and contained a Shiva temple dating between 980 and 1031 AD.
Following the growing dispute, a team of archaeology experts recently visited the site at the instruction of Amrit Abhijat, Additional Chief Secretary of the Tourism and Culture Department.
The experts spent nearly three hours examining the structures and the surrounding area before preparing their report.
According to the findings, the buildings contain several elements commonly associated with Islamic architecture, including a qibla wall, arches, domes and minaret-style features. The survey team also reported the presence of four graves within the mosque-like structure.
Officials said the report also noted that repairs and restoration work had been carried out at different times.
Sources indicated that the survey report has been preserved by the authorities and may be placed before Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath if required.
Competing Claims Continue
Leaders of the Lakhan Army and the Suheldev Army have maintained that the site was originally associated with Raja Kansa Pasi and that traces of Hindu symbols can still be seen on parts of the structure.
Suraj Pasi, National President of the Lakhan Army, and Yogesh Pasi of Suheldev Army have claimed that the original structure was altered and later converted into a mosque and mausoleum.
The Muslim side, however, has strongly rejected these allegations.
Locals and community representatives have pointed out that official government records identify the land as a graveyard and that the site has long been recognised as a mosque and mausoleum.
They say no recent construction has taken place and that the graves present at the location are several centuries old.
According to locals, Friday prayers had regularly been offered at the mosque for many years without any dispute.
Appeal for Peace
A local, Luqman Ali, said the site had never been a source of conflict in the past.
“This mosque and mausoleum are very old. There has never been any dispute here. Revenue records show the site as a mosque and mausoleum under Gata Number 1016. The same is reflected in official maps. Local people have no objection to it,” he said.
He added, “People from outside are trying to create tension in the area by raising this issue now.”
Amid the growing controversy, local Muslims have decided not to offer prayers at the site until the matter is resolved.
Administration Monitoring Situation
Officials are closely monitoring the situation to ensure peace and prevent any law-and-order issues.
The survey findings are expected to play an important role in any future administrative or legal decisions regarding the disputed site.
For now, authorities have not announced any further action, and both sides continue to stand by their respective claims while awaiting the government’s next move.
