Sunehri Masjid demolition: An open letter to the chief architect of NDMC

In conclusion, I implore for a reconsideration of this decision. Let us not sacrifice the heritage and sentiments of one community for the convenience of another. Preserving the Masjid in its current location while ensuring minimal disruption to traffic flow can be achieved by widening roads and thoughtfully allocating space for parking. Thank you.

Dear sir,

I strongly  oppose the proposed relocation of the  Masjid. To me, this endeavor seems to embody a targeted effort against the Muslim community—a relentless push to erase every trace of Muslim heritage or culture. This isn’t just an assault on a religious site; it’s an assault on the very essence of our democracy. The implications of such actions are dire and threaten the foundational secular fabric of our nation. Only time will reveal the true extent of the damage being inflicted.

The Sunehri Masjid and its surroundings are not singular in their layout. Numerous roundabouts exist in that area, prompting the pressing question: why single out this specific one for removal? Is the Masjid’s removal truly the only viable solution? Such a narrow viewpoint overlooks alternative possibilities. Why not consider adjusting the expanding nearby campuses instead? Or what about reallocating space from the vast lawns surrounding government buildings adjacent to the Masjid? Should these green spaces hold greater importance than preserving a national heritage site? Should we prioritize smooth traffic flow over the sanctity of a Masjid, a place of historical significance?

The concern here is not solely about the religious sentiments of Muslims but the fundamental ethos of equality and inclusivity in our society. Do the sentiments of one community hold lesser value in this country? Should the sanctity and heritage of a Masjid be disregarded while only a particular faith’s places of worship are revered and protected?

A plausible solution presents itself: retain the roundabout in its current location. Instead, widen the roads encircling it by appropriating a fraction of the vast lawns adjacent to the surrounding buildings. Simultaneously, designate a small parking area for the Masjid to avert any potential traffic disruptions caused by worshippers attending prayers.

Merely removing one roundabout will not resolve the issue at hand. In fact, transitioning to rectilinear roads might exacerbate the problem, necessitating traffic signals that could exacerbate traffic congestion. The removal of the roundabout is not the panacea; rather, widening the adjacent roads while accommodating a parking space for Masjid-goers appears a more feasible and accommodating solution.

In conclusion, I implore for a reconsideration of this decision. Let us not sacrifice the heritage and sentiments of one community for the convenience of another. Preserving the Masjid in its current location while ensuring minimal disruption to traffic flow can be achieved by widening roads and thoughtfully allocating space for parking. Thank you.

Warm Regards,

Prof. Nasim Akhtar                                                                                                D77/C, Shaheenbagh,Jamianagar                                                                              New Delhi 110025                                                                                                     Mob: 8447515820