Residents of housing society in Kandivali’s claim their religious rights are being ignored despite adherence to society rules
MUMBAI – The trustees of Madrasa and Masjid Abu Bakar Siddique, located in Nasheman Cooperative Housing Society, Sector No. 1, Charkop, Kandivali (West), continue their efforts to restart congregational prayers that have been halted for months. A fresh hearing on the matter will take place at the Waqf Tribunal on 11 November.
According to the trustees, they have been trying continuously through legal and administrative means to reopen the mosque for prayers. They have also written to the Police Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), and the Senior Inspector of Charkop Police Station, requesting that permission be granted to resume prayers — the same way festivals of other communities are celebrated within the society premises.
Speaking to Clarion India, Haji Usman, a trustee of the mosque and madrasa, said: “Hearing has been held in the Waqf Tribunal on several dates, now another hearing is going to be held on November 11. On this occasion, a special request will be made to the Waqf Tribunal to allow prayers.”
He further added, “We have always respected and followed the system and rules of the society. Despite this, prayers are being stopped by force. In a democratic country like India, every citizen has the constitutional right to live according to their faith and beliefs. Unfortunately, that right is being denied to us.”
The trustees and residents maintain that the mosque was legally constructed after purchasing a room for religious use, in full compliance with MAHADA’s (Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority) regulations. For years, five daily prayers and Eid congregations were conducted peacefully. However, according to locals, a group of “troublemakers” within the society managed to halt the prayers under pressure, and the mosque has remained closed since.
“Earlier, prayers were offered peacefully under certain restrictions, which we accepted for the sake of harmony. Now, even that right is being snatched away,” said another community member, who requested anonymity for safety reasons.
Residents have pointed out the double standards in how the society treats religious practices. “All other communities celebrate their festivals here with full freedom, but Muslims are being stopped from praying,” said a local resident. “Is this what secularism means? Our community is only asking for equal treatment.”
The community’s appeal emphasises that they are not seeking special privileges — only the same consideration granted to others.
The upcoming Waqf Tribunal hearing on November 11 is expected to be crucial. The trustees plan to present all documents showing legal ownership, previous permissions, and the correspondence with police authorities.
“We hope justice will prevail,” said Haji Usman. “We are not fighting against anyone; we are only fighting for our right to pray in peace.”
The mosque, now silent, once echoed with the sound of daily prayers. For many residents, it was more than a place of worship — it was a symbol of unity and brotherhood within a diverse society. As the hearing approaches, the Muslim residents of Nasheman Cooperative Housing Society wait with hope that their voices will finally be heard.
