Today, On 28th February, The Allahabad High Court ruled that no painting will be done at the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, allowing only cleaning of the premises. The decision came after the ASI inspected the site and found no need for painting. The Muslim side had requested painting before Ramadan, but the Hindu side opposed it, citing concerns over evidence tampering. The court’s ruling brings relief to the Hindu side while the Muslim side may present further arguments in the next hearing.
Pryagraj: The Allahabad High Court instructed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to clean the Jama Masjid premises in Sambhal. Previously, the court had ordered the ASI to form a three-member team for an immediate inspection of the mosque, with a report due by 10 AM on Friday.
The order was issued by Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal in response to a request from the Committee of Management of Jama Masjid, which sought approval for whitewashing and cleaning the mosque in preparation for Ramadan.
On Thursday, the court instructed the ASI to conduct an immediate inspection of the mosque and to form a team of three officers, who were to submit their report by 10 AM on Friday.
During the hearing on February 27, the court stated,
“The report will provide details on whether painting and repairs are needed within the premises. The ASI will also conduct videography of any work to be carried out before Ramadan.”
The High Court ruled against any painting at the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, rejecting the Muslim side’s request. Recently, the Muslim representatives had sought permission to paint the mosque ahead of Ramadan. Following this request, the Allahabad High Court tasked a three-member team to inspect the mosque, which submitted its findings on Friday.
The ASI completed its inspection in one hour and ten minutes on Thursday, examining all the areas where painting was requested. The report indicated that painting was not necessary at this time, prompting the High Court to deny the request.
This was the first instance in which the Jama Masjid Committee had made such a request for painting. However, the Hindu side opposed this, arguing that any alterations could compromise historical evidence.
Also Read: Sambhal Court Rejects Bail Pleas of 10 More Accused in Shahi Jama Masjid Violence Case
The High Court’s decision has provided relief to the Hindu side while presenting a setback for the Muslim side for the moment.
Despite this, the High Court permitted cleaning work at the Jama Masjid. All parties are allowed to present their arguments regarding the decision until Tuesday, after which the next hearing will be scheduled. The Muslim side still retains the option to submit additional arguments before the High Court.
The ongoing court proceedings concerning Sambhal are significant, especially given the heightened tensions in the area following violent clashes in November of last year. Authorities are on high alert due to the sensitive nature of the case, which has prompted several notable remarks from the court during the hearings.
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