Mosque trustees cooperate with MAHADA action, Appeal for calm as locals warn against provocation
Team Clarion
MUMBAI — The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MAHADA) has begun dismantling the upper two floors of the Quba Mosque, located near Gate No. 8 of the Mumbai bus depot, following a court order. The action comes after repeated complaints from local right-wing groups, who alleged that the upper floors were built without proper authorisation.
The trustees of the mosque have stated that they are complying with the court’s ruling while urging the community to remain calm. “The court has ordered the demolition, and we are cooperating fully,” said Zulfiqar Ahmed, a trustee of the mosque. “Discussions were held with local MLA Aslam Sheikh and police officials, who have assured their support. Our priority is to protect the mosque and ensure worshippers face no difficulties, especially during Ramadan.”
The demolition follows complaints from members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), who accused the mosque’s trustees of unauthorised construction. Despite legal efforts to prevent the action, the court upheld the decision to proceed with the demolition.
Ahmed expressed his disappointment but reiterated the mosque’s commitment to abiding by the law. “We respect the court’s decision, but this demolition has caused us deep anguish,” he said. “We appeal to everyone to maintain peace and not fall into provocation. The trustees will continue working towards safeguarding the mosque.”
MAHADA officials have confirmed that the demolition is being carried out under the court’s order. “The upper floors were constructed illegally, which is why they are being removed,” said a MAHADA officer, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The trustees are cooperating, and no resistance has been encountered.”
The process is being closely monitored by MAHADA and law enforcement authorities, with police personnel deployed to maintain order. Demolition work has already begun, with the removal of materials from the third floor and the gradual dismantling of walls.
The action has drawn mixed reactions from local residents. While some support the court’s ruling, others argue that religious structures are being selectively targeted. “There are numerous unauthorised constructions in this area, but only the mosque is being singled out. This is unfair,” said a resident who wished to remain anonymous.
As tensions simmer, the trustees have urged the community to avoid any actions that could escalate the situation. “We do not believe in confrontation,” Ahmed emphasised. “Our focus remains on preserving the sanctity of the mosque and ensuring that worshippers can pray without disruption.”
