New Delhi, May 31 (IANS) The Delhi High Court Thursday issued notice to the Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, the government and the Archaeological Survey of India on a plea seeking to restrain any construction on land allegedly encroached by him near the mosque.
Justice Vipin Sanghi, seeking a response from Shahi Imam Syed Ahmed Bukhari, also asked his three brothers to reply on the plea along with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the police commissioner of Delhi by July 12.
The court also directed the police and MCD to take appropriate action to restrain illegal construction and encroachment of land.
Petitioner Suhail Ahmed Khan alleged that in March and April this year Bukhari with his three brothers started illegal construction on an encroached government land that is adjacent to historical Jama Masjid.
He further submitted that he made various complaints to various higher authorities including Prime Minister Office, office of President of India and Lt. Governor, but no action has been taken against the Shahi Imam and his brothers.
“From such encroachment Shahi Imam and his brothers are gaining benefit by allowing such encroachment for the purpose of commercial use like parking, temporary pandals (marquee) for marriages, kiosks etc,” the petition said.
Seeking legal action against Jama Masjid Imam and his three brothers, petitioner asked the court to immediately restrain them from an ongoing unauthorised illegal construction over encroached government land.
