Thu Nov 14 10:43:53 UTC 2024: ## Central Government Seeks Closure of Madrasa in Historic Srirangapatna Mosque
**Bangalore, November 14, 2024:** A legal battle has erupted in Karnataka over the operation of a madrasa within the premises of the historic Jama Masjid in Srirangapatna. The Central government has filed a petition in the Karnataka High Court seeking the closure of the madrasa, citing its unauthorized presence within a protected monument.
The petition, filed by Abhishek Gowda from Kanakapura taluk, alleges that the madrasa’s operations violate the monument’s status. The Central government’s counsel argued that the Jama Masjid was designated as a protected monument in 1951 and the continued presence of the madrasa raises concerns over potential law and order issues.
However, the Waqf Board, which claims ownership of the mosque, has defended the right to conduct madrasa activities there. They argue that the Waqf Board was recognized as the property owner since 1963, making the madrasa’s operations legal.
The Karnataka High Court, after hearing arguments from both sides, adjourned the case for further arguments scheduled for November 20. The court will ultimately decide the fate of the madrasa and the ownership of the historic Jama Masjid.
First Piper 