New Delhi: The whitewashing of the outer wall of Shahi Jama Masjid in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal is set to commence on Sunday, marking a crucial step in preserving and enhancing the mosque’s historic structure.

The entire process will be carried out under the direct supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team. The ASI has meticulously planned the project, ensuring that it adheres to historical and aesthetic standards.

According to the outlined plan, the mosque’s outer wall will be painted in a combination of white, green, and golden colours. Skilled labourers have been arranged to execute the task with precision.

Completion timeline

The whitewashing process is expected to be completed within three to four days, restoring the mosque’s outer walls to their former glory.

On Saturday, the Secretary of Shahi Jama Masjid, Masood Farooqui, confirmed the commencement of the project. He stated that the ASI team visited the mosque the previous day, assessing the necessary resources and discussing labour and material requirements.

“The work will begin promptly in accordance with the directions set forth by the Allahabad High Court,” he said.

Court intervention and directives

The Allahabad High Court had intervened on March 12, directing the ASI to complete the whitewashing of the mosque’s outer walls within a week. Following the court's order, the ASI conducted a detailed assessment, taking precise measurements and planning the required steps.

Zafar Ali, the president of Shahi Jama Masjid, had earlier mentioned that the painting work would begin after the Holi festival, as per the court’s directive. Advocate Hari Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side in the case, clarified that the whitewashing pertains solely to the mosque’s outer wall.

Additionally, the court has mandated the installation of lighting around the mosque’s exterior to enhance its visibility.

IANS