The Allahabad High Court has issued a directive to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to complete the whitewashing of Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, within a week. This decision came after a hearing on Wednesday where Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal also instructed the ASI to install lighting on the mosque’s exterior.
The court’s decision follows a prior directive this Monday, where Justice Agarwal asked ASI’s counsel for specific reasons why whitewashing the mosque’s outer walls could be prejudicial. During the proceedings, SFA Naqvi, representing the mosque committee, argued that the ASI had not yet provided a clear refusal for the whitewashing and additional lighting in their affidavits. He supported his claims with colored photographs illustrating the deteriorated state of the mosque’s exterior which necessitated the maintenance.
The Jama Masjid in Sambhal has been under scrutiny for its maintenance needs, with local community members emphasizing the importance of preserving its aesthetic and historical significance. The court’s swift action underscores the urgency of addressing these concerns and ensuring that the mosque is maintained properly.
This directive is part of a broader effort to preserve India’s cultural and architectural heritage, particularly structures under ASI’s protection that require regular upkeep to maintain their historical integrity and public appeal. The installation of extra lighting and decorative lights, as discussed in court, aims not only to enhance the mosque’s visual appeal but also to contribute to its preservation as a historic site.
