Tensions surrounding a century-old religious and historical landmark in the national capital have escalated sharply following directives that threaten its existence. Occupants associated with the site report being instructed to clear the premises within a compressed timeframe of just six days, triggering deep concern across religious and political spheres. Prominent leaders have expressed strong disapproval of the administrative actions and questioned the handling of the situation.
Administrative Actions and Infrastructure Cut-Offs
The core of the dispute involves the 125-year-old historic Race Course Mosque, where individuals connected to the management stated they received strict orders to vacate. The situation worsened significantly when utility lines supplying electricity and water to the complex were completely severed. According to accounts from those managing the site, the Land and Development Office shut all entry gates, making it extremely difficult for regular worshippers to access the mosque for daily prayers.
Political and Community Leaders Raise Concerns
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president Asaduddin Owaisi strongly condemned the developments and reached out directly to Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, urging immediate governmental intervention. Owaisi pointed out that the site has maintained its status as a registered waqf property since 1977, yet the Waqf Board failed to mount any legal challenge against the demolition threat. He added that since the Delhi Waqf Board has lacked a formal constitution since 2023, the responsibility to address the crisis falls squarely upon the central ministry.
Waqf Status and Heritage Recognition
Official records indicate that the structure has been recognized as a notified waqf property alongside its designation as a heritage site. Addressing the issue on social media, Kashmiri religious leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq questioned how any legal protections could remain valid if a properly registered waqf asset faces such threats. He criticized waqf authorities for failing to defend the property and questioned whether such actions are becoming a recurring trend for places of worship belonging to minorities.
The Hujra Kuwan Mosque Controversy
Prior to these developments, Owaisi had also spoken out against attempts to dismantle the nearby historic Hujra Kuwan Mosque. He highlighted that worshippers were being barred from offering prayers at the location and that caretakers had faced intimidation without receiving any formal written notice regarding the matter. He argued that such arbitrary actions validate existing fears concerning the misuse of protective religious legislation.
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Submits Memorandum
In response to the unfolding crisis, the religious organization Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind stepped forward to press for official safeguards. A delegation headed by the organization's general secretary, Maulana Mohammad Hakimuddin Qasmi, met with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju to submit a formal memorandum. The petition requested comprehensive protection for both the Race Course Mosque and the adjoining graveyard situated behind Safdarjung's Tomb, alongside immediate restoration of water and electricity services to ensure the uninterrupted continuation of prayers.
