The Calcutta High Court on Thursday declined to grant interim permission for devotees to offer prayers at the 136-year-old Bankra Mosque, also known as Gauripur Jama Masjid, located inside the premises of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata.
The court said it would hear the matter further, with the next hearing scheduled for October 7.
Court Hears Plea Against Prayer Restrictions
The petition was filed after airport authorities stopped issuing entry passes to people visiting the mosque for prayers in July. The petitioners argued that worshippers had earlier been allowed to enter after security checks and requested that the prayer facility be restored.
During Thursday’s hearing, the petitioners also suggested measures such as registration of visitors and an alternative access route to maintain security while allowing prayers.
Airport Authorities Cite Security Concerns
Airport authorities opposed the request, saying the mosque is located close to the airport runway and that allowing people to enter the area could create security concerns.
Authorities also referred to previous instances in which unauthorised people were reportedly found in restricted airport areas. The state and airport authorities argued that aviation and national security considerations must be taken into account.
Mosque Located Close to Runway
The Bankra Mosque is located within the airport's operational area and around 165 metres from the secondary runway, according to reports.
Airport authorities have previously raised concerns about the mosque's location and its impact on airport operations and possible runway expansion. Discussions over relocating the historic structure have also been taking place.
Mosque Predates Kolkata Airport
The mosque reportedly dates back to the 1890s, several decades before the modern airport was established. The Dum Dum aerodrome, which later developed into Kolkata airport, was built in 1924.
Next Hearing on October 7
For now, the court has not ordered the restoration of prayers at the mosque. The matter will be heard again on October 7, when the court is expected to consider the arguments from the different sides further.