Allahabad HC directs ASI to clean Jama Masjid in Sambhal; no order on whitewashing ahead of Ramzan

Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court has directed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to clean the premises of the historic Jama Masjid in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal district, but refrained from passing any order on the masjid management committee's plea seeking permission for whitewashing ahead of the upcoming Ramzan month.

The order was issued by Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal on Friday following the plea from the Committee of Management, Jama Masjid, seeking permission to carry out cleaning and whitewashing works at the mosque to prepare for the holy month.

The court had earlier directed the ASI to conduct an inspection of the mosque and submit a report on the matter by Friday morning. The ASI report stated that the mosque's interiors had ceramic paint and did not require whitewashing at present. However, the court allowed cleaning of dust and removal of grass on the premises.

During the hearing, senior advocate SFA Naqvi, representing the mosque management, argued that the committee's request was limited to whitewashing and lighting work to enhance the mosque's upkeep during Ramzan. The state government's advocate general assured the court that law and order would be maintained during the cleaning process.

The Masjid has remained embroiled in controversy since November 24, 2024 following violent clashes triggered by a court-ordered ASI survey. The survey was initiated based on a petition alleging that the mosque was constructed over an ancient Harihar temple, which was purportedly demolished during the Mughal era.

Agencies