The Jama Masjid administration’s decision restricting entry of “girls” into the famed mosque led to an outrage Thursday and the order was finally withdrawn following Delhi LG V K Saxena’s request to the Shahi Imam.
The notice, which had no date, came up a few days ago outside the three main entry gates of the 17th century Mughal-era mosque that attracts thousands of devout as well as tourists, sources in the administration said. However, it had come to attention only now.
A controversy erupted over the issue with women’s rights activists terming the mosque’s decision regressive and unacceptable.
Later in the evening, Shahi Imam withdrew the order, after Delhi LG Saxena spoke to him and requested him to take back the decree.
“The LG spoke to me. We have removed the notice boards. But people visiting the mosque have to maintain its sanctity,” Bukhari said.
Read more: Jama Masjid is place of worship, not for waiting for dates: Shahi Imam on ban on entry of ‘girls’
“Jama Masjid mein ladki ya ladkiyon ka akele daakhla mana hai (The entry of a girl, or girls is not permitted in Jama Masjid),” read the notice.
Earlier in the day, Shahi Imam Syed Ahmed Bukhari said the decision was taken after some “incidents” were reported on the premises of the heritage structure, but it was not applicable to those coming to offer prayers.
