Sambhal SP MLA Iqbal Mahmood States ASI Responsible for Jama Masjid Colour Decision

The responsibility for choosing the paint colour of the historic Shahi Jama Masjid rests with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), according to Samajwadi Party MLA Iqbal Mahmood. He emphasised that the mosque should retain its original colour. The district of Sambhal has been tense since riots erupted on November 24 last year during protests against a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era mosque.

Four people lost their lives, and several others, including police officers, were injured in these clashes. The mosque became a focal point of controversy after a petition claimed it was built on an ancient Hindu temple site. Mahmood, speaking from his residence in Miyan Sarai, accused the ASI and police administration of being influenced by the government.

ASI's Role and Community Concerns

Rejecting demands for saffron paint, Mahmood stated, "The ASI must ensure that the mosque retains its original colour. The demand for saffron paint by some Hindu groups is not justified." He highlighted that unlike the RSS and BJP, the Muslim community has always respected court decisions. "We accepted the Babri Masjid verdict peacefully," he added.

The Uttar Pradesh government, according to Mahmood, aims to politicise the Jama Masjid issue. The mosque has always been managed by its committee, which oversees its maintenance, including annual painting. Mahmood questioned why permission for painting was initially denied by the agency, forcing the mosque committee to seek intervention from the high court.

Judicial Intervention and Painting Process

The Allahabad High Court had directed the ASI on March 12 to complete the whitewashing of the mosque's outer wall within a week. This decision came after objections from the Shahi Jama Masjid management committee against an ASI survey report. The mosque committee also requested permission for additional lighting and decorative lights outside the disputed structure.

An ASI team conducted measurements and assessments on March 13 following this order. The whitewashing began on Sunday morning under ASI supervision, as confirmed by a mosque committee advocate. Zafar Ali, president of the Masjid's sadar, mentioned that 13-14 workers were involved in the task on Monday.

Community Sentiments and Future Plans

Ali noted that ASI officers were present at Jama Masjid overseeing the work. Arrangements for lighting are also underway under ASI's direction. The number of labourers is expected to increase from Tuesday to expedite progress. The mosque's managing committee has consistently handled its upkeep over the years.

Mahmood reiterated that saffron is suitable for temples but not for mosques, which should maintain their traditional colours. He stressed that Hindus have no reason to interfere in matters concerning a place where Muslims have prayed for centuries.

The ongoing whitewashing work at Shahi Jama Masjid reflects efforts to adhere to judicial orders while respecting community sentiments. The situation remains sensitive due to historical claims and recent tensions in Sambhal district.