Allahabad HC Directs Cleaning Of Sambhal Shahi Jama Mosque After ASI Says Whitewashing Not Needed

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has submitted its inspection report on the Shahi Jama Mosque in Sambhal following the directions of the Allahabad High Court on Thursday (27 February).

ASI report has stated that the structure as a whole is in good condition, and there is no urgency of repainting, Live Law reported.

However, the ASI has raised concerns over repair and renovation carried out by the mosque management, altering the monument’s historical integrity.

According to the findings of the three-member ASI committee, “the floor of the monument has been completely replaced by tiles and stones. The interior of the mosque has been painted with thick layers of enamel paint of sharp colours like golden, red, green and yellow concealing the original surface of the monument.”

The ASI has further noted that certain chambers on the western and northern sides, currently used for storage, are in a dilapidated state, with wooden ceilings in a vulnerable condition.

Further, the ASI has also submitted to the Court that modern work/intervention that occurred in the mosque premises needs to be identified thoroughly by the Conservation and science wing of the ASI to bring the monument into its original fabric.

A more detailed study of the structural alterations and conservation requirements would be undertaken by the ASI Meerut Circle, which will prepare an estimate for the necessary conservation and repair efforts.

As for routine upkeep, including cleaning, dust removal, and clearing vegetation from the premises, the ASI has expressed its willingness to undertake the task, provided that the mosque committee cooperates fully.

Following the ASI’s report, the High Court, taking into account the mosque committee’s insistence on the necessity of whitewashing, has granted time until Tuesday, next week, for the committee to submit its response or objections to the ASI report,

Meanwhile, the Court has ordered the cleaning of the mosque premises, including the removal of dust and overgrown vegetation.

The controversy arose when the mosque’s Management Committee moved the High Court, challenging a directive from the Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) North Sambhal, which objected to the proposed maintenance work ahead of Ramzan.

The committee had sought to carry out whitewashing, cleaning, and minor repairs to facilitate a comfortable prayer experience for devotees during Ramzan, beginning 1 March.

However, the ASP’s response, dated 11 February, asserted that since the mosque is a protected monument, prior permission from the ASI was required before undertaking any such work.

The committee has contended that such maintenance activities, including whitewashing, cleaning, and installing additional lighting, have been a long-standing tradition during Ramzan and other religious occasions, with no past interference from the authorities.

Also Read: Allahabad High Court Directs ASI to Inspect Sambhal's Shahi Jama Mosque Ahead of Ramzan Amid Maintenance Dispute