Concerns have emerged over the future of the century-old Race Course Mosque in New Delhi after a notice was issued directing its administration to vacate the premises within six days, according to Indian media reports.
The mosque is located near the residence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has a capacity of around 800 worshippers. The eviction notice and the reported suspension of basic utilities have created difficulties for those who come to offer prayers.
According to the report, the Race Course Mosque has been listed as a Waqf property in the official government gazette since 1977. It is also reportedly included in the New Delhi Municipal Council’s list of historic heritage sites.
Six-Day Deadline
According to the mosque’s imam, Maulana Haroon, the central government’s Land and Development Office has indicated its intention to demolish the mosque next week.
He said the mosque’s electricity and water supplies had been disconnected, and all its entrances had been closed. These measures have made it difficult for worshippers to offer prayers.
Historic Significance
The mosque’s historical and religious significance has made the matter particularly important. According to Indian media, it was registered as a Waqf property in the official government gazette.
Its reported inclusion in the New Delhi Municipal Council’s heritage list has also raised questions about its future and the protection of the site.
Mirwaiz Raises Questions
Kashmiri Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has also expressed concern over the situation surrounding the Race Course Mosque.
In a statement, he questioned whether this was becoming a regular practice involving Muslim places of worship. He also raised concerns about the protection of a mosque that is legally recognised.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq asked: “If even a legally recognised mosque cannot be protected, what guarantee remains for other mosques?”
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