Delhi HC Orders Maintenance of Status Quo on Mehrauli Mosque Demolition Site

The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to maintain status quo concerning the land in Mehrauli where a mosque, believed to be over six centuries old, was demolished last month.

A single bench of Justice Sachin Datta specified that the order would remain effective until the next hearing and should not obstruct authorities from addressing other illicit structures in the area.

The court, scheduling further proceedings for February 12, emphasized that the DDA must uphold the status quo regarding the site of the ‘Akhoondji mosque.’ The court’s decision followed a petition by the managing committee of the Delhi Waqf Board, contending that the mosque’s demolition was unlawful.

The waqf counsel urged the court to instruct the maintenance of status quo on the site. The DDA had demolished both the mosque and the Behrul Uloom madrasa on January 30, categorizing them as “illegal structures” in Sanjay Van.

In defense of its actions, the DDA argued before the high court, citing recommendations from the Religious Committee dated January 4. According to the DDA, the decision was made following the Religious Committee providing an opportunity for a hearing to the CEO of the Delhi Waqf Board.

The petitioner argued that the Religious Committee lacks jurisdiction to order demolition actions. On January 31, the court directed the DDA to submit a reply, clearly outlining the actions taken concerning the concerned property and their legal basis. The court also requested information on whether any prior notice was given before the demolition action was taken.