Anwarulhaq
A sigh of relief for the Muslim community as the Delhi High Court adjourned the hearing on the proposed demolition of historical Sunehri Bagh Mosque until January 8th. This comes after Imam Abdul Aziz filed a petition challenging the New Delhi Municipal Corporation’s (NDMC) public notice seeking public feedback on the matter.
Advocate Shuaib Ahmed Khan, representing the Imam, urged the court for an expedited hearing, fearing demolition after the January 1st deadline for public feedback. However, the NDMC assured the court that no action would be taken without the Heritage Conservation Committee’s (HCC) approval.
The petition filed by the imam acknowledged the mosque’s historical significance and its status as a Waqf property under the Delhi Waqf Board. The petition argues that the mosque stands over 150 years old, contributes to the Lutyens zone’s heritage, and serves the local community daily with five-time prayers. Contrary to the NDMC’s claim, the petition blames surrounding government buildings for traffic congestion, not the mosque.
The court’s intervention provides temporary respite for the mosque and its congregation. However, the January 8th hearing could hold crucial decisions determining its fate. This case highlights the ongoing struggles over religious heritage and development priorities in India’s capital city.