Authorities in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, have paused the demolition of a portion of the Shahi Masjid following overnight protests by members of the Muslim community against a road-widening project.

The demolition is part of a plan to widen a 900-metre stretch to 15 metres ahead of the Simhastha 2028 religious gathering. Officials had marked 272 buildings along the route, including a portion of the mosque.

Tensions rose on Monday when protesters clashed with police near the site, with reports of stone-pelting. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd, and security was tightened across the area.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court declined to grant a stay on the demolition after a plea challenging the action was filed, even as the situation on the ground remained tense.

Officials said the demolition drive had been halted for now, and further action would be taken after reviewing the situation and holding talks with community representatives.