Race Course Masjid: Delhi HC Steps In Amid Demolition Fears
Delhi High Court seeks responses from the Centre and Waqf Board over a plea to protect the Race Course Masjid from potential demolition.
The Delhi High Court has intervened in a growing concern over the fate of the protect Race Course Masjid, issuing notices to the Central Government and the Delhi Waqf Board. This legal move comes after a plea was filed expressing deep apprehensions that the mosque, located in a high-security zone of the national capital, might face demolition.
Legal Battle Over Heritage and Faith
The petition was brought forward by Syed Ahmed Saud, a regular worshipper at the mosque. The petitioner raised alarms over several restrictive measures already in place, including the disconnection of essential water and electricity services and limited access to the premises, which he claims signal an uncertain future for the structure.
Representing the petitioner, Advocate M Sufiyan Siddiqui highlighted the legal and historical significance of the site. He pointed out two critical notifications:
- 1977: The mosque was officially notified as a Waqf property in the Delhi Gazette.
- 2009: On October 1, the mosque was granted Grade-II heritage recognition.
Siddiqui argued that because of this heritage status, any attempt at demolition or structural alteration would legally require explicit permission from the competent heritage authorities.
The Struggle for Access
The petitioner alleged that worshippers have been systematically blocked from entering and exiting the mosque, hindering their ability to offer prayers. Furthermore, the plea questioned the efficacy of the Delhi Waqf Board, suggesting that the body had failed to take sufficient action to safeguard the property.
The mosque is situated within the expansive 53-acre Race Course Club premises, located in the sensitive vicinity of the Prime Minister’s residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.
The Government's Stand
During the proceedings, counsel for the Delhi Waqf Board informed Justice Anish Dayal that a formal representation had been sent to the Land and Development Office (L&DO) and other relevant authorities on October 19, though a response is still pending.
Representing the Central Government, counsel Ashish Dixit requested time to obtain detailed instructions. He provided a justification for the utility cuts, stating that electricity and water were disconnected to mitigate security risks for visitors, given the ongoing demolition activities in the surrounding Race Course area.
In a notable addition to the discussion, Dixit mentioned that a temple is also situated within the premises and stated he would seek instructions regarding its status as well.
Interim Relief and Next Steps
Providing a momentary sigh of relief for the worshippers, Ashish Dixit gave an oral assurance to the court that no demolition activity would be carried out on the mosque until the next hearing.
Justice Anish Dayal has listed the matter for further hearing on October 29, by which time the Centre and the Waqf Board are expected to submit their responses.