New Delhi: Northern Railway authorities have issued notices to two prominent mosques in the Capital demanding removal of encroachments within 15 days.
The authorities warned the managements of Bengali Market Mosque and Babar Shah Takiya Mosque that if encroachments are not removed within the stipulated timeframe, necessary action will be taken to reclaim their land, reported India Today.
The notice stated that Railway land has been illegally encroached upon, and hence the authorities are urging concerned parties to voluntarily remove any unauthorised building, temple, mosque or shrine constructed on their property. Failure to comply with the notice will result in action being taken in accordance with the Railway Act.
The notice added that parties responsible for encroachments will be held accountable for damages, if any, incurred during the process, relieving the Railway administration of any liability.
Though numerous mosques have been an integral part of Delhi’s religious and cultural landscape for ages, Railways’ have claimed ownership of land, which has led to debates and discussions within local community.
Countering Railway authorities’ assertion that the structures were built on their land without permission, the mosque committees say that these places of worship have significant historical value and stood for centuries.
Abdul Gaffar, secretary of Babar Shah Takiya Mosque, claimed that it is nearly 400 years old.
To drive home the point that it’s not targeting any particular community, Northern Railway has also served a notice to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi office for Malaria, which is adjacent to Babar Shah Takiya Mosque.
