The report highlights the importance of Ashiq Allah Dargah and the chillah gah (meditation place) of the 13th-century Sufi saint Baba Farid as devotees visit the place daily
NEW DELHI– Two structures within Delhi’s Mehrauli Archaeological Park hold religious significance for Muslim devotees, the Archaeologfsical Survey of India (ASI) has confirmed to the Supreme Court. The ASI’s report, submitted on Wednesday, highlights the importance of the Ashiq Allah Dargah and the chillah gah (meditation place) of the 13th-century Sufi saint Baba Farid, noting their association with the “religious sentiments and beliefs of a particular religious community”.
The report, presented before a bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, comes as part of a petition filed by Zameer Ahmed Jamalana. Mr Jamalana challenged a Delhi High Court decision that refused to issue directives for the protection of these centuries-old religious structures within the park.
Concerns about the potential demolition of the structures arose following the demolition of the 609-year-old Akhunji Mosque, the Bahru-ul-Uloom Madrasa, and several tombs in January. This led to a petition being filed in the Delhi High Court amid fears that the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) might target the two remaining structures. The High Court subsequently disposed of the matter on February 8 after receiving assurances from the DDA that it would not demolish any protected monument.
However, Mr Jamalana then appealed to the Supreme Court, seeking greater protection for the religious structures within the Mehrauli Archaeological Park. He argued that the DDA was planning to demolish the structures under the guise of removing encroachments, without properly assessing their historical and religious value. In July, the Supreme Court requested a status report from both the ASI and the National Monuments Authority.
The ASI’s report detailed that the Ashiq Allah shrine is dedicated to Shaikh Shahabuddin, a Sufi saint. An inscription on his tomb indicates its construction in 1316 AD. The report also highlighted the ongoing religious practices at the site, stating that “devotees light lamps at the Ashiq Allah Dargah to fulfil their wishes and chant to ward off evil spirits and bad omens.” This observation underscores the continued importance of the site to the local community.
The report further noted the proximity of the tomb to the fort of the 12th-century Rajput king Prithviraj Chauhan, placing it within the 200-metre regulated zone stipulated by the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act. This Act prohibits construction within 100 metres of a protected monument and requires approval for any construction within the 200-metre regulated area. The ASI clarified that any repair, renovation, or construction work on the structures requires prior permission from the relevant authorities.
The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of the preservation of historical and religious sites in India. The next hearing is scheduled for February. The case also comes amidst a backdrop of ongoing legal disputes concerning other religious sites across India. At least 18 cases are currently pending in courts nationwide, involving 10 mosques and shrines, including the Gyanvapi Masjid in Varanasi, the Shahi Eidgah Masjid in Mathura, and the Ajmer Sharif Dargah in Rajasthan. In these cases, Hindu groups have claimed that these structures were built on the sites of demolished ancient Hindu temples.
A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, commented on the significance of the shrines: “These places are not just old buildings; they are places of prayer and reflection for many people. They are a part of our history and our community.”
A legal expert familiar with heritage law commented: “The ASI’s report is crucial. It provides evidence of the ongoing religious significance of these sites, which should be a key factor in any decision regarding their future. The law is clear about the protection of such sites, and it’s vital that it is upheld.”
Another local devotee, who regularly visits the Ashiq Allah Dargah, explained: “We come here to pray for blessings and to find peace. This place has been a source of comfort for generations. It’s important that it is preserved for future generations as well.”
The Supreme Court’s upcoming decision will have significant implications for the future of the Mehrauli Park structures and could also set a precedent for similar cases involving historical and religious sites across the country. The balance between preservation, development, and the respect for religious sentiments remains a complex and sensitive issue in India.
