The Akhoondji Masjid and Behrul Uloom madrasa, situated in Mehrauli, Delhi, faced a sudden demolition by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) on January 30. The local community asserts the mosque’s historical significance, tracing its origins back to Razia Sultana’s reign approximately 600-700 years ago.
Swift Action Sparks Outcry
Imam Zakir Hussain, in charge of the Mehrauli mosque, and residents were caught off guard as authorities took swift action without prior notice. The DDA claims the structure, despite its historical potential, falls under the category of illegal encroachment in the Sanjay Van area, a reserved forest part of the Southern Ridge.
Allegations of Desecration and Lack of Notification
The demolition not only targeted the mosque but also the Behrul Uloom madrasa and its associated graveyard. Allegations include the desecration of graves, adding emotional distress to the affected families. The mosque’s Imam, Hussain, alleges a lack of prior notice, emphasizing the abrupt nature of the demolition.
Community Voices and Impact
Parents of children attending the madrasa were notified only after the fact, leaving them shocked and distressed. The displaced students are now relocated to another nearby madrasa. Shamstabrez Khan, whose wife is buried in the demolished mosque’s graveyard, expresses anguish over the lack of sensitivity during the demolition.
DDA’s Justification and Controversy
DDA officials argue that the demolition aligns with the Ridge Management Board’s decision to clear the ridge area of all illegal encroachments, including religious structures. The DDA insists that due procedures were followed, including approval from the Religious Committee, sparking a controversy over the perceived lack of transparency.
Legal and Emotional Fallout
The clash between historical claims and administrative actions raises questions about the preservation of cultural heritage amid urban development. The emotional toll on the affected families, coupled with allegations of inadequate communication and sensitivity, adds complexity to the aftermath of the mosque’s demolition.
In the midst of conflicting narratives, the Akhoondji Masjid’s sudden demise becomes a focal point for discussions around the preservation of historical structures and the importance of transparent communication in such sensitive matters.
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