In a recent legal development, the Central government has approached the Karnataka High Court, seeking an order for the eviction of a madrasa located within the premises of the historic Jama Masjid in Srirangapatna. The petition was filed amid concerns about unauthorized activities at the site, which is a protected monument.
The plea, initiated by Abhishek Gowda from Kabbalu village in Kanakapura taluk, highlighted alleged unauthorized madrasa activities within the mosque, prompting legal scrutiny. The Jama Masjid, recognized as a protected monument since 1951, has been the center of this contentious issue, with the Central government represented by Additional Solicitor General of India for the Karnataka High Court, K Arvind Kamath.
Kamath argued that despite the mosque’s protected status, unauthorized educational activities have been ongoing, posing potential law and order challenges. He urged the High Court to direct the Mandya district administration to intervene and vacate the madrasa to preserve the sanctity of the historic site.
Opposing the move, representatives of the Karnataka state government and the Waqf Board defended the legality of the madrasa’s operations. They asserted that the Waqf Board has been recognized as the legitimate owner of the property since 1963, thereby justifying the continuation of educational activities under its auspices.
The legal battle saw both sides presenting their arguments before a division bench headed by Chief Justice N V Anjaria. After a preliminary hearing, the court adjourned the case, scheduling further arguments for November 20.
