Several Muslim organisations have called for a transparent investigation into the construction activity, urging authorities to hold violators accountable.
Team Clarion
KALYAN – The Additional District Sessions Court has directed to maintain the current state of the historic Kalyan Fort near Mumbai in Maharashtra and imposed a ban on all construction work at the site amid an ongoing ownership dispute involving a mosque, cemetery, and Eidgah. The court order, issued recently, aims to preserve communal harmony until the final verdict.
The Kalyan Civil Court had previously dismissed the claim of the Majlis-e-Machharirin to the ownership of the religious structures on the fort on December 10, 2024. The court declared the land to be government property, a decision that led to celebrations among Hindutva groups, who wrongly interpreted the ruling as a victory for their cause.
However, the Majlis-e-Machharirin challenged the ruling, and the Additional District Sessions Court has now directed the suspension of any construction activities on the disputed land. Despite this order, reports indicate that construction work on a tower of the fort has continued, prompting the Majlis-e-Machharirin to file a contempt of court petition against the involved parties.
Sharafuddin Kurte, president of the Majlis-e-Machharirin, criticised the ongoing construction, stating, “The court’s decision was clear, yet construction continues in violation of the order. We have filed a contempt of court petition to ensure justice is served and the sanctity of the religious structures is upheld.”
The controversy stems from a historical claim involving the mosque, cemetery, and Eidgah, which have been part of the fort’s landscape for generations. The initial court dismissal was reportedly based on procedural grounds, with the court citing that the claim was not filed within the stipulated period, rather than any ruling on religious ownership.
The court proceedings have drawn sharp reactions from both sides. While Hindu organisations have projected the decision as a triumph, the Muslim community insists the matter remains unresolved and continues to seek legal recourse.
Justice RG Waghmare, presiding over the current case, highlighted the sensitivity of the issue, emphasising the need for caution in a matter involving two religious communities. “No construction should take place until the matter reaches a final conclusion,” the judge remarked while urging all parties to maintain peace.
The court has given Hindu organisations until January 9 to present their position, while the Majlis-e-Machharirin has stressed the importance of respecting the judicial process.
Local community leaders have urged restraint and dialogue in the wake of rising tensions. Abdul Rahman, a resident of Kalyan, expressed concern over the situation, stating, “This fort has always been a symbol of unity. We hope the authorities will ensure fairness and protect the religious sites from further harm.”
Meanwhile, several Muslim organisations have called for a transparent investigation into the construction activity, urging authorities to hold violators accountable. “We seek justice, not conflict,” said Kurte, reaffirming his faith in the judiciary.
The situation at Kalyan Fort underscores broader concerns over the protection of historical and religious sites in India. While legal battles continue, the need for mutual respect and adherence to court orders remains paramount.
