Seven CCTV cameras installed for Ganpati celebrations amid delay in reconstruction and alleged breach of trust by the developer
MUMBAI – The Ghousia Mosque and Madrasa near the Ganpati pandal in Ambedkar Nagar, MIDC in Mumbai’s Andheri (East), is now under continuous surveillance to safeguard the community and ensure peaceful conduct of religious activities. Trustees of the mosque have installed seven CCTV cameras, strategically positioned to monitor both the mosque premises and surrounding areas.
Iqbal Manyar, an active member of the mosque committee, told the media, “Seven CCTV cameras have been installed in and outside the mosque where prayers are offered. This helps us monitor the daily activities, and during the Ganpati festival, it is particularly useful in maintaining order.”
The surveillance system has already produced positive results. During Friday prayers, activities inside the nearby Ganpati pandal, such as puja and other rituals, are carefully managed to avoid any interference with mosque activities, preventing potential law and order issues.
Police authorities are also actively involved in ensuring community safety. Officers patrol the area regularly to prevent any untoward incidents and to curb the actions of disruptive elements.
The mosque’s long-pending reconstruction remains in limbo due to what trustees describe as a breach of contract by the developer. “The construction of the mosque is under judicial consideration because the developer violated the agreement. Since the lockdown, no court dates have been scheduled, which has caused considerable concern among the trustees,” Manyar said.
He further claimed that apparently without consulting the trustees the developer submitted a new plan to the court, replacing the previous agreed layout. The new plan proposes an alternative location for the mosque, but it is actually in the middle of a building, where no space exists. This seems to be a deliberate attempt to mislead.”
According to Manyar, trustees plan to consult legal experts on Tuesday to address this issue. “Years ago, a foundation was laid at the designated site according to the agreement. Due to opposition from disruptive elements, construction has not progressed. We will not allow any attempt to eliminate the mosque’s location. After legal consultation, we will inform the court of the actual facts,” he stated.
The trustees’ proactive approach, including the installation of CCTV cameras and coordination with police, reflects their commitment to safeguarding religious spaces and maintaining communal harmony. The mosque community continues to await justice, hoping that legal avenues will resolve the long-standing construction disputes.
