Historic mosque near Modi’s residence ordered to vacate

A historic mosque near Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official residence in New Delhi has been ordered to vacate within six days, triggering concerns over its possible demolition.

The Land and Development Office (L&DO) issued the eviction notice on October 19, declaring the premises unauthorised and claiming that the mosque stands on government land.

Known as the Race Course Mosque, the structure is listed in the New Delhi Municipal Council’s (NDMC) heritage register.

Mosque representatives have disputed the authorities’ position, citing its historical and religious significance.

The mosque’s representatives also said that its electricity and water supplies had been disconnected, making it difficult for worshippers to access the premises and offer prayers.

The development prompted the Muslim organisation Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind to seek urgent government intervention to protect the mosque and an adjoining graveyard.

A delegation met Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and submitted a memorandum requesting that the authorities halt demolition-related action until the legal issues are resolved.

The organisation also called for the restoration of electricity and water supplies and asked the government to obtain reports from the relevant authorities.

Meanwhile, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi questioned the Delhi Waqf Board’s failure to challenge the order, arguing that the mosque had been recognised as a Waqf property since 1977.

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has said it will challenge the eviction notice in the Delhi High Court.

The dispute centres on the mosque’s legal status, its ownership and the protection afforded to properties listed as heritage sites.