LUCKNOW: In a significant ruling, the Allahabad High Court has allowed the painting and installation of decorative lighting on the outer walls of the historic Jama Masjid in Sambhal. However, the court mandated that the process must not cause any damage to the mosque’s architectural integrity.
Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal directed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to complete the beautification work within a week. The decision came in response to a petition filed by the Jama Masjid committee after their request for permission was initially denied by the ASI and local authorities.
The single-judge bench emphasized that while aesthetic enhancements are permissible, no structural modifications should be made. The ASI was instructed to oversee the work to ensure historical preservation.
The Jama Masjid committee had submitted photographic evidence highlighting the need for painting, arguing that previous cleaning efforts were insufficient. Senior advocate S.F.A. Naqvi, representing the committee, noted that the ASI had not provided a clear justification for opposing the request.
Following the court’s directive, the ruling has been welcomed as a relief for the Muslim community, ensuring that the mosque’s heritage is maintained while allowing necessary aesthetic improvements. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for April 8, 2025.
