Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh : In a significant development, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has sought a detailed clarification from the concerned authorities regarding the denial of prayer rights to Muslim civilians at Masjid Noor, located on defence land at Old Grant B-3, behind the Controller of Defence Account (CDA), Ridge Road, Jabalpur.
A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kait and Justice Vivek Jain took a prima facie view of the matter after hearing a writ petition challenging the alleged discriminatory action. The petitioner pointed out that while civilians from Hindu and Christian communities are permitted to offer prayers at the temple and church located within or near the same defence premises, Muslim civilians are being barred from praying at the masjid.
The Court issued notices to all respondents and directed specific clarification through an affidavit. The respondents have been asked to explain whether civilians are indeed allowed to pray at the temple and church, and if so, why similar permission is being denied to Muslims at Masjid Noor.
Counsel Saurabh Sunder appeared for the petitioners, while advocates Ishan Soni and Manhar Dixit represented respondents. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing after two weeks.
This case has brought to light concerns of religious discrimination and unequal treatment of citizens based on faith, especially on government-controlled properties.
