Location: New Delhi

Legal Update: Central Government files affidavit in Delhi High Court to remove Qadeemi Masjid at Krishi Bhawan for Central Vista; refuses alternative land

The survival of the century-old historic 'Qadeemi Masjid' situated inside the Krishi Bhawan complex in Lutyens' Delhi faces a direct threat. The Central Government has filed an affidavit in the Delhi High Court clarifying that the mosque will be removed under the 'Central Vista Project.' This step by the government has once again reignited the debate surrounding the targeting of religious sites under the guise of development projects.

Government's Argument: 'Mosque Contradicts Secular Character'

The Land and Development Office (L&DO), functioning under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, took a tough stance in its status report submitted to the court. The Center stated that Buildings No. 4 and 5 of the 'Common Central Secretariat' are to be constructed in place of Krishi Bhawan and Shastri Bhawan, a project categorized under 'topmost national importance.'

The government further argued that the presence of a permanent religious structure inside any central administrative complex is 'contrary to the secular character of government property.' According to the government, the mosque committee was granted conditional possession under a 1940 agreement, which does not convey any permanent legal ownership or title.

Plea for Constitutional Rights Rejected by Center

For decades, Qadeemi Masjid has served as a primary place of worship for Muslim employees working in Krishi Bhawan, Shastri Bhawan, and nearby ministries. The mosque management committee approached the High Court in September. Without opposing the Central Vista development, the committee merely requested that either the mosque be safeguarded or an alternative site nearby be allotted for prayers.

However, the Center rejected the argument framed under Article 25 of the Constitution (Right to Freedom of Religion). The government asserted that demanding to offer prayers at a specific spot on public land does not constitute a fundamental right. As an alternative, the government suggested that employees visit the 'Shahi Masjid Zabta Ganj' located 2 km away near India Gate.

Political and Social Concerns: Are Religious Sites Being Targeted Under Pretexts?

Following the government's affidavit, deep anger and concern have emerged among the minority community and civil rights activists. Critics argue this is not an isolated incident, but part of a ongoing trend where centuries-old mosques and shrines are continually targeted using pretexts like development, encroachment removal, and master plans.

Opposition parties and social organizations allege that the government is carrying out such actions to appease certain right-wing organizations. Questions are being raised as to why the argument of a 'secular character' is not invoked when other religious rituals and prayers take place inside government offices.

Community members feel that official suggestions to travel 2 km away during working hours for daily prayers represent less of a practical solution and more of a disregard for the religious needs of employees.