Meerut: A fresh controversy has emerged in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut over the historic Shahi Jama Masjid, with a senior lawyer demanding an archaeological survey and scientific examination of the mosque complex.

Ram Kumar Sharma, former general secretary of the Meerut District Bar Association and a senior advocate, submitted a memorandum to Meerut Commissioner Bhanu Chandra Goswami and the District Magistrate, seeking an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the mosque premises.

Sharma has claimed that an ancient Buddhist monastery, vihara or other archaeological structures could exist beneath the present-day Shahi Jama Masjid.

In his memorandum, the advocate reportedly referred to historical records, including the Meerut District Gazetteer of 1904, as well as references from the travel accounts of Chinese traveller Xuanzang.

He has also cited the possibility of archaeological remains linked to the Mauryan and Buddhist periods in and around Meerut and called for an expert scientific examination of the claims.

The memorandum also refers to ancient decorated stone pillars and other remains reportedly mentioned earlier by historian Professor K.D. Sharma.

However, the claims have not yet been established through any official archaeological or administrative investigation. There is currently no official confirmation that an ancient Buddhist structure exists beneath the mosque complex.

According to the report, the Meerut Commissioner has taken the matter seriously and directed the District Magistrate to examine the issue and take necessary action.

The latest development has added to the ongoing discussion surrounding the historical and archaeological status of religious sites in parts of Uttar Pradesh.

The key question now is whether an official archaeological investigation will be carried out and what evidence, if any, emerges from such an examination.