News for 'mosque'

SC extends stay on survey of Shahi Idgah mosque in Mathura

SC extends stay on survey of Shahi Idgah mosque in Mathura

Rediff.com22 Jan 2025

The Supreme Court of India has extended its stay on a court-monitored survey of the Shahi Idgah Mosque complex in Mathura, which is located adjacent to the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple. The court deferred the hearing on a plea against the survey to April 1, while the interim order staying the survey will continue to operate. The Hindu side claims that the mosque complex holds signs of a temple that once existed at the site, while the Muslim side contends that the lawsuits filed by the Hindu litigants violate the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act of 1991.

Mosques covered for 'Laat Saheb' Holi procession in UP town

Mosques covered for 'Laat Saheb' Holi procession in UP town

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

The city of Shahjahanpur in India celebrates Holi with a unique procession called "Laat Saheb," where revellers hurl footwear at a man impersonating a British Lord. The tradition dates back to the 18th century and has evolved over time. The procession involves a seven-kilometer route, prayers at a temple, and a symbolic bribe offered to the police. The event is marked by strict security measures, including barricades, CCTV cameras, and the covering of mosques with tarpaulins. The procession is seen as a way to commemorate the city's history of freedom fighters and to discourage the British colonizers.

NIA nabs Delhi bomber's Kashmir aide linked to drone, rocket plot

NIA nabs Delhi bomber's Kashmir aide linked to drone, rocket plot

Rediff.com17 Nov 2025

The National Investigation Agency has arrested Jasir Bilal Wani in Srinagar, who was an "active co-conspirator" of suicide bomber Umar un Nabi, in connection with the car blast near the Red Fort last week that claimed 13 lives.

Ancient temples 'converted' into mosques be vacated, demands Akhara chief

Ancient temples 'converted' into mosques be vacated, demands Akhara chief

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

The president of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, Mahant Ravindra Puri, has demanded the evacuation of mosques built on ancient temples across India. Puri, who is also the president of the Mansa Devi Temple Trust in Haridwar, claims that around 80% of mosques in India are built on temples and that their domes resemble those of temples. He has appealed to Muslims to hand over such structures to Hindus and has called for the formation of a "Sanatan Board" to protect Hindu religious institutions. Puri also denied banning Muslims from attending the Maha Kumbh Mela, saying that they are welcome to visit and learn about Hinduism.

No terror angle in Kanpur blast, firecrackers triggered explosion: Police

No terror angle in Kanpur blast, firecrackers triggered explosion: Police

Rediff.com9 Oct 2025

A massive explosion in Kanpur's Mishri Bazaar was caused by illegal firecracker storage, not a scooter explosion, police confirm. Terror links have been ruled out, and several arrests have been made.

SC to hear mosque panel's plea in Shahi Idgah dispute on Wednesday

SC to hear mosque panel's plea in Shahi Idgah dispute on Wednesday

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

The Supreme Court of India will hear a plea from the mosque management committee challenging an order rejecting its petition in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah dispute in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh on January 15. The Allahabad High Court had rejected the mosque committee's plea, stating that the religious character of the Shahi Idgah mosque needed to be determined. The case involves claims that the mosque was built after the demolition of a temple, a claim disputed by the mosque committee. The Supreme Court will now decide on the maintainability of the mosque committee's plea.

SC notice to UP on contempt plea over Kushinagar mosque demolition

SC notice to UP on contempt plea over Kushinagar mosque demolition

Rediff.com17 Feb 2025

The Supreme Court of India has directed Uttar Pradesh authorities to respond to contempt proceedings for allegedly razing a portion of a mosque in Kushinagar, defying a previous court order. The court has also ordered a halt to any further demolition of the structure. The demolition was carried out despite a November 2024 Supreme Court ruling that barred demolition without a prior show cause notice and a 15-day response period. The petitioners allege the demolition was carried out in violation of legal process and the Supreme Court's guidelines, as well as without providing an opportunity for a hearing.

Students stage protest demanding removal of mosque from UP college

Students stage protest demanding removal of mosque from UP college

Rediff.com6 Dec 2024

Students at Udai Pratap College in Varanasi, India, protested demanding the removal of a mosque located on the campus. The protest came after tensions arose when a section of students recited Hanuman Chalisa near the mosque while prayers were being offered. The college administration has denied claims by the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board that the mosque and surrounding land are Waqf property, stating that the mosque was built illegally. The college administration has also accused the mosque of stealing electricity.

Sri Lanka: Paradiso For Travellers

Sri Lanka: Paradiso For Travellers

Rediff.com25 Nov 2025

Sri Lanka stays with you not just in memory, but gently reminds you what a society can achieve when heart and heritage guide the way.

Portion of 185-year-old UP mosque demolished for highway widening

Portion of 185-year-old UP mosque demolished for highway widening

Rediff.com10 Dec 2024

The mosque's management committee chief, however, claimed that the Noori Masjid in Lalauli town was built in 1839 while the road around it came up only in 1956, and said they have already moved the Allahabad high court which will take up the petition on December 12.

Sambhal mosque survey conducted on orders of....: Hindu side lawyer

Sambhal mosque survey conducted on orders of....: Hindu side lawyer

Rediff.com27 Nov 2024

A lawyer representing the Hindu side in the ongoing dispute over the Sambhal Jama Masjid has defended the second survey of the mosque, claiming it was conducted on the orders of the advocate commissioner. He also dismissed claims that the survey was conducted in haste or without court orders.

'I Love Muhammad' row: Cong MP, SP MLA stopped from visiting Bareilly

'I Love Muhammad' row: Cong MP, SP MLA stopped from visiting Bareilly

Rediff.com1 Oct 2025

Congress MP Imran Masood and Samajwadi Party MLA Shahnavaz Khan were prevented by police from visiting Bareilly following recent clashes. The leaders planned to meet with police officials but were confined to their residences.

'No Such Thing As Diabetes Reversal'

'No Such Thing As Diabetes Reversal'

Rediff.com14 Nov 2025

'In diabetes remission, you go below a 6.5 HbA1c without medication.' 'And this happens only when you lose 10 to 15 per cent of your body weight with a good amount of lifestyle and dietary changes, exercise and sometimes medication.' 'You have to be able to sustain your HBA1C below 6.5 for at least a year without medication to say that the patient is in remission.'

How 2 educated youths became ISIS's Delhi operatives

How 2 educated youths became ISIS's Delhi operatives

Rediff.com25 Oct 2025

The two men had been instructed to carry out a terror strike in a crowded Delhi location on Diwali, targeting a prominent mall and a public park.

SC stays survey of Sambhal mosque, calls for peace

SC stays survey of Sambhal mosque, calls for peace

Rediff.com29 Nov 2024

The Supreme Court on Friday directed a Sambhal trial court to temporarily halt proceedings in the case over the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid and its survey at Chandausi while directing the UP government to maintain peace and harmony in the violence-hit town.

Encroachment drive launched around Sambhal mosque amid tension

Encroachment drive launched around Sambhal mosque amid tension

Rediff.com15 Dec 2024

Weeks after violent clashes over a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, the district administration in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has launched a campaign against encroachments and illegal power theft in the area around the historic mosque. The administration began removing encroachments on Sunday morning, focusing on clearing drains outside houses and shops. The operation uncovered an illegal stockpile of domestic gas cylinders in a house, and the electricity department unearthed illegal connections in four mosques and a madrasa. The Bhasma Shankar temple, which was reopened by the district administration, has resumed regular worship.

'Zohran Mamdani Has A Very Complicated Identity'

'Zohran Mamdani Has A Very Complicated Identity'

Rediff.com13 Nov 2025

'He knew the world's eyes were on him, and he had to speak directly to the fears that immigrants in New York feel right now.'

7 acquitted in Malegaon blasts case get HC notice

7 acquitted in Malegaon blasts case get HC notice

Rediff.com18 Sep 2025

The Bombay High Court has issued notices to those acquitted in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, following an appeal by victims' families, raising questions about the investigation and seeking convictions.

ASI seeks control of Sambhal mosque post violence, cites heritage status

ASI seeks control of Sambhal mosque post violence, cites heritage status

Rediff.com1 Dec 2024

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has sought control and management of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, citing its status as a protected heritage structure. The request comes after violence erupted during a court-ordered survey of the mosque, which was linked to a petition claiming that a Harihar temple once stood at the site. The ASI has argued that unauthorized changes to the mosque's structure by the management committee are unlawful and should be restricted. A three-member judicial commission has been formed to probe the violence and is expected to visit Sambhal on Sunday.

Shimla mosque row ends as demolition of illegal portion begins

Shimla mosque row ends as demolition of illegal portion begins

Rediff.com21 Oct 2024

The demolition started with the removal of the roof amid tight police security, Latif told the PTI on Monday evening.

Judicial panel visits Sambhal mosque, violence-hit areas

Judicial panel visits Sambhal mosque, violence-hit areas

Rediff.com1 Dec 2024

Amid tight security, members of a judicial commission on Sunday visited the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal and other areas which witnessed violence over a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era mosque.

Can rising temple-mosque disputes shape UP polls in 2027?

Can rising temple-mosque disputes shape UP polls in 2027?

Rediff.com29 Dec 2024

With the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls scheduled for 2027, political experts are observing an increasing trend of temple-mosque disputes in the state, leading to heightened polarization. Recent bypolls saw the use of divisive slogans, and analysts believe this trend will intensify as the 2027 elections approach. The recent surge in claims about the existence of Hindu temples at the sites of mosques in various cities has fueled this polarization. The BJP-led government has been accused of promoting communal polarization, while opposition parties like the SP have criticized the ruling party's actions. The RSS chief has called for restraint in raising new temple-related disputes. Experts predict that communal polarization is likely to escalate in the coming days.

Imam fined Rs 2 lakh for loudspeaker use in Sambhal mosque

Imam fined Rs 2 lakh for loudspeaker use in Sambhal mosque

Rediff.com14 Dec 2024

Days after violence erupted over a survey of a Mughal-era mosque in Sambhal, an imam of another mosque was fined Rs 2 lakh for allegedly using a loudspeaker at high volume. The incident occurred in the Anar Wali Masjid, prompting authorities to take action. The imam, identified as Tahzeeb, was fined and granted bail, with orders to refrain from similar conduct for six months. The incident comes amid ongoing tensions in Sambhal following the November 24 violence during a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, which resulted in four deaths and several injuries. The incident has become a major political controversy, with Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra raising the issue in Parliament.

After Shimla, Hindu groups protest against Mandi mosque

After Shimla, Hindu groups protest against Mandi mosque

Rediff.com13 Sep 2024

"PWD officials had informed us that a wall of the mosque was in PWD land and we were served a notice. So we decided to demolish the wall," Iqbal Ali, a member of the mosque committee, said earlier.

Centre delaying reply on Worship Act, Mathura mosque panel tells SC

Centre delaying reply on Worship Act, Mathura mosque panel tells SC

Rediff.com22 Jan 2025

The Mathura Shahi Masjid Eidgah Committee has approached the Supreme Court, requesting the court to prevent the central government from filing a response to a petition challenging the Places of Worship Act's constitutional validity. The committee accuses the BJP-led government of intentionally delaying its response. The court had previously issued a notice to the government in March 2021, but the government has yet to submit its reply despite numerous opportunities. The committee argues that the government's delay is intended to obstruct those opposing the challenge to the Places of Worship Act from filing their own responses. The petition also states that the pleas challenging the law's validity are scheduled for hearing on February 17, and closing the government's right to respond would serve justice. The Supreme Court previously issued a ruling in December 2022 that stopped courts from entertaining new lawsuits or issuing interim or final orders regarding the reclaiming of religious places, particularly mosques and dargahs. The ruling halted proceedings in 18 lawsuits filed by Hindu groups seeking surveys to confirm the original religious character of 10 mosques, including the Gyanvapi Masjid in Varanasi, the Shahi Idgah Masjid in Mathura, and the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal. This decision was made in response to six petitions, including one filed by lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay, challenging various provisions of the Places of Worship Act. The 1991 law prohibits the conversion of places of worship and guarantees the preservation of their existing religious character as it stood on August 15, 1947. Notably, the dispute regarding the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid in Ayodhya was excluded from this law. There are also several cross-petitions advocating for a strict enforcement of the 1991 law to uphold communal harmony and maintain the current status of mosques that Hindu groups seek to reclaim, claiming they were temples before being destroyed by invaders.

SC to hear Sambhal mosque survey plea on Friday

SC to hear Sambhal mosque survey plea on Friday

Rediff.com28 Nov 2024

The Supreme Court of India will hear a petition challenging a district court's order to survey a Mughal-era mosque in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. The petition alleges that the hasty survey has led to communal tensions and violence, resulting in deaths and injuries. The petitioners argue that the survey was ordered without proper notice or hearing, and they seek a stay on the proceedings and a directive to prevent such surveys from being ordered as a matter of course in cases involving disputes over places of worship.

Not open gate for appeals in 2008 Malegaon blast case acquittals, says HC

Not open gate for appeals in 2008 Malegaon blast case acquittals, says HC

Rediff.com16 Sep 2025

"You (appellants) have to indicate whether they were witnesses or not. Give us details. This is not an open gate for everyone," the HC said and posted the matter for further hearing on Wednesday.

Now protesters demand demolition of Kullu mosque, clash with police

Now protesters demand demolition of Kullu mosque, clash with police

Rediff.com30 Sep 2024

Hindu outfits that took out a march in Kullu demanding the demolition of the mosque were involved in a scuffle with the police on Monday.

High alert in Bareilly; drones deployed, internet services suspended

High alert in Bareilly; drones deployed, internet services suspended

Rediff.com2 Oct 2025

Security has been increased across four districts in Uttar Pradesh's Bareilly division for Dussehra, with internet services suspended in Bareilly district for 48 hours to prevent the spread of rumors and maintain public order.

Sambhal mosque survey report delayed, advocate commissioner 'ill'

Sambhal mosque survey report delayed, advocate commissioner 'ill'

Rediff.com9 Dec 2024

The survey report of the Shahi Jama Masjid at Sambhal expected on Monday, was not presented by the advocate commissioner entrusted with it, after he sought an extension of 15 days citing ill health.

SC to hear Owaisi's plea seeking to halt mosque surveys

SC to hear Owaisi's plea seeking to halt mosque surveys

Rediff.com2 Jan 2025

The Supreme Court on Thursday agreed to consider a plea of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi seeking the implementation of the 1991 places of worship law, which asks to maintain the religious character of a place as it existed on August 15, 1947.

Sambhal court asks for mosque survey report in 10 days

Sambhal court asks for mosque survey report in 10 days

Rediff.com29 Nov 2024

A court in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has directed the court-appointed commissioner to submit a survey report on the Jama Masjid mosque within 10 days. The survey was ordered following claims that a temple stood on the site. The court set the next hearing date for January 8. Tensions have been escalating in Sambhal since November 19 when the survey began, leading to violence on November 24 that resulted in four deaths and injuries.

'Cataclysmic devastation' if... : Pak army warns India

'Cataclysmic devastation' if... : Pak army warns India

Rediff.com5 Oct 2025

The Pakistan Army has criticized recent remarks by Indian military officers and political leaders, warning that a future conflict between the two countries could lead to "cataclysmic devastation." The statement follows comments from Indian officials regarding India's ability to cross borders and the potential for military action against Pakistan.

6 killed as structure of dargah near Humayun's Tomb collapses

6 killed as structure of dargah near Humayun's Tomb collapses

Rediff.com16 Aug 2025

A wall collapse at a dargah near Humayun's Tomb in Delhi's Nizamuddin area resulted in five fatalities and several injuries. Rescue operations were conducted by multiple agencies.

Yogi threatening Muslims, will quit, warns BJP leader

Yogi threatening Muslims, will quit, warns BJP leader

Rediff.com3 Oct 2025

Jammu and Kashmir BJP leader Jahanzaib Sirwal threatened to resign from the party, citing Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's "unacceptable" remarks and the state police's "vindictive" attitude against the Muslim community.

Fresh demand to demolish of another 'illegal' Shimla mosque

Fresh demand to demolish of another 'illegal' Shimla mosque

Rediff.com17 Sep 2024

Last Wednesday, protestors demanding demolition of a portion of a mosque in Sanjauli area of Shimla had a scuffle with the police and 10 people were injured.

Maharashtra mosque hosts Lord Ganesha for 44 years

Maharashtra mosque hosts Lord Ganesha for 44 years

Rediff.com17 Sep 2024

Although the festival was not observed for several years afterwards, the New Ganesh Mandal was formed in 1980 and has continued this unique tradition ever since.

SP leader links U'khand tragedy to demolition of religious sites

SP leader links U'khand tragedy to demolition of religious sites

Rediff.com10 Aug 2025

Former Samajwadi Party MP S T Hasan links the Uttarakhand disaster to the demolition of religious sites, claiming it angers God and disrupts spiritual balance. He also cites environmental destruction as a contributing factor to increasing natural disasters.

'I Love Muhammad' campaign: Cleric among 39 held after violence

'I Love Muhammad' campaign: Cleric among 39 held after violence

Rediff.com27 Sep 2025

In a major crackdown, police arrested 39 people, including local cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan, in connection with the violence during the 'I love Muhammad' campaign after Friday prayers in Bareilly, while authorities suspended internet service in the district for 48 hours beginning Saturday.

Violence erupts during mosque survey in UP; 3 killed

Violence erupts during mosque survey in UP; 3 killed

Rediff.com24 Nov 2024

Three people were killed and scores of others, including around 20 security personnel and four personnel of the administration, were injured as protesters opposing a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era mosque in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh clashed with police on Sunday.