Shahi Jama Masjid management committee had written to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), seeking permission to clean, paint and decorate the mosque ahead of Ramzan
Team Clarion
SAMBHAL — A day after the Shahi Jama Masjid management sought permission from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to clean and decorate the mosque ahead of Ramzan, local authorities on Monday emphasised that no work should proceed without ASI’s approval.
Speaking to reporters, Zafar Ali, president of Shahi Jama Masjid management committee, confirmed that they had formally requested ASI’s consent for routine cleaning, painting, and decoration in preparation for the holy month.
Sambhal District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya, when asked about the management committee’s letter to the ASI, told that the matter was pending in court and the property belonged to the ASI, reports PTI.
“The ASI has to take a decision. We have said that until the ASI grants permission, no one has the right to tamper with it (mosque) in any way,” the District Magistrate said.
“I don’t think there is any need for painting this type of a disputed structure. Still, the ASI should take a decision. There is nothing from our side,” he added.
In its letter, management committee emphasised that the mosque had undergone cleaning and decoration ahead of Ramzan for centuries without any objections from the ASI.
However, as a precautionary measure to maintain peace and harmony, the committee decided to seek permission this time.
Zafar Ali had said that the management committee were seeking formal approval to continue the longstanding tradition. He had also expressed hope that the ASI would grant permission.
The Mughal-era mosque burst into the limelight after violence erupted during a survey of the mosque as protesters clashed with security personnel, leading to multiple casualties.
The survey of the mosque was ordered by a local court after a petition was filed that claimed a Harihar temple had stood at the site. (With agency inputs)
