Sambhal Masjid doesn't need whitewash before Ramzan: ASI to Allahabad High Court

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Friday told the Allahabad High Court that the controversial Shahi Jama Mosque in Sambhal does not require whitewashing ahead of Ramzan since the entire structure is coated with enamel paint that is in good condition..An inspection report in this regard was submitted today by ASI pursuant to a direction issued by the Court on Thursday.The High Court had directed the ASI to inspect the mosque to determine the necessity of whitewashing, decorative arrangements and repair of the mosque ahead of Ramzan.The Court had directed the inspection to be carried out during the day in the presence of the Mutawalis of the Masjid. During today's hearing, the Shahi Jama Masjid Management Committee insisted that whitewashing is necessary and claimed that the ASI report is incorrect.Therefore, a Bench of Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal granted the Masjid Committee time until March 4 to submit its response or objections to the report.Meanwhile, the Court also directed the cleaning of the mosque premises, including the removal of dust and vegetation from both inside and around the area..The mosque has been at the centre of the controversy after violence broke out in Sambhal following a civil court order to conduct a survey of the mosque.The civil court had issued the direction in a suit filed by advocate Hari Shankar Jain and seven others who claimed that the mosque was constructed over a demolished temple during the Mughal era.The case was later stayed by the Supreme Court which passed a blanket stay order in cases across the country which raise dispute over the religious character of such structures..Meanwhile, the Management Committee of Shahi Jama Masjid at Sambhal approached the High Court with the present plea following an objection raised by the Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) North Sambhal regarding its proposed maintenance work at the mosque ahead of Ramzan.The committee had earlier informed the authorities about its plans to undertake essential upkeep, including whitewashing, cleaning, repairs, and installation of additional lighting to facilitate a smooth experience for devotees during the holy month, beginning March 1, 2025.Additionally, the committee requested that there be no restrictions on the traditional Azan (call to prayer) or maintenance activities, which it considers part of the mosque’s regular upkeep..However, in a February 11 letter, the ASP stated that since the Masjid is a protected monument, the committee must obtain permission from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) before carrying out any work.Challenging this requirement, the Management Committee moved the High Court, arguing that it has consistently undertaken similar maintenance work—such as cleaning, whitewashing, and installing lights—during Ramzan and other religious occasions in previous years without any interference from the authorities.The committee contended that the ASP’s response constitutes an unjustified obstruction to its right to freely practice and manage religious affairs, as protected under Articles 25 and 26 of the Indian Constitution.The petition, therefore, sought a direction restraining the authorities from interfering in the performance of Azan and the proposed maintenance and lighting work within the mosque premises.