Tue Oct 21 18:09:20 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a news article based on it:

Summary:

A Khadim (custodian) of the Ajmer dargah (shrine) has filed a petition in the Delhi High Court challenging the mismanagement of the shrine due to the absence of a Dargah Committee and the recent decision by the Nazim (administrator) to install CCTV cameras inside the sanctum sanctorum. The petition highlights financial irregularities flagged by the CAG, concerns about the sanctity of the shrine, and the infringement of Khadims’ rights. The High Court has issued notices to relevant authorities, seeking explanations on the issues raised.

News Article:

Delhi High Court Hears Petition Challenging Dargah Mismanagement, CCTV Installation

NEW DELHI, October 21, 2025 – The Delhi High Court is hearing a writ petition challenging the non-formation of the statutory Dargah Committee and the proposed installation of CCTV cameras inside the sanctum sanctorum of the historic Ajmer dargah, dedicated to Sufi mystic Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.

Syed Meharaj Miya, a Khadim (custodian) of the 13th-century shrine, filed the petition alleging mismanagement and financial irregularities due to the absence of the Dargah Committee, a body mandated under the Dargah Khwaja Saheb Act, 1955. He claims the lack of this committee, coupled with a Nazim (administrator) post that was vacant for two years until January 2025, has led to corruption and unlawful practices.

Justice Sachin Datta issued notices to the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs, the Dargah Nazim, and the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), seeking explanations for the absence of the committee for the past three years and the financial irregularities highlighted in CAG reports between 2013-14 and 2022-23.

The petition also takes issue with the Nazim’s recent decision to install CCTV cameras inside the sanctum sanctorum, arguing that it would violate the spiritual sanctity and privacy of devotees. Mr. Miya emphasized that major shrines have been granted exemptions regarding electronic devices in inner portions to preserve their sacred character.

Further concerns were raised regarding administrative decisions taken by the Nazim’s office in the absence of the Dargah Committee, including the launch of a web portal and mobile app, live streaming on YouTube, and the introduction of special memberships for donors. The petitioner argues that these decisions infringe upon the rights and privileges of the Khadims.

Referencing a statement made in the Lok Sabha by Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, the petition underscores that “serious financial irregularities” within the dargah administration have been acknowledged.

The matter is scheduled for further hearing on October 30. Mr. Meharaj Miya seeks remedies to address the alleged irregularities, misadministration, and arbitrary decisions, aiming to prevent further monetary losses to the dargah’s endowments and properties. He also seeks directions for the proper upkeep of the shrine’s buildings and structures.

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