The Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid has agreed to withdraw the earlier order restricting women from visiting the Masjid after Lt.Governor of Delhi V.K. Saxena spoke with the Imam to withdraw the decree.
According to reports, the Lt.Governor spoke with the Imam and requested him to take back the decree. Imam Bukhari has agreed to revoke the order on the condition that visitors respect and maintain the sanctity of the mosque, reports said.
The administration of Delhi's famed Jama Masjid had put up notices outside the main gates banning the entry of 'girls', whether alone or in groups. As the controversy escalated, the mosque's Shahi Imam on Thursday said the order is not applicable to those coming to offer prayers.
The issue led to an outrage in some quarters as women rights activists termed the mosque's decision regressive and unacceptable. The notices, which have no date, came up a few days ago outside the three main entry gates, sources in the administration said. However, it has come to attention only now.
Masjid authorities said the restriction was placed after they found girls coming alone and waiting for their dates. “This is not what this place is meant for. The restriction is on that," Syed Ahmed Bukhari, the Shahi Imam of the Masjid said.
The National Commission for Women criticised the decision and called it gender-biased. The Commission also wrote to the Central and Delhi governments asking them to take appropriate action.
(With PTI inputs)
