Near Sambhal mosque, ancient well excavation begins.

• The Sambhal district administration in Uttar Pradesh is excavating an ancient well found under alleged illegal encroachment near the Shahi Jama Masjid.

• The well, one of 19 in the region, was covered and its original form altered over time.

• The excavation is seen as a step towards clearing encroachments on ancient structures in Sambhal.

• The Supreme Court’s order on January 10 ordered the status quo to be maintained regarding the well.

• The case was posted on February 25.

• The situation in Sambhal has been tense since a local court ordered a mosque survey following claims of a temple previously standing at the site.