Jama Masjid bans entry of a ‘lone girl’ withdraws after massive backlash; Tarek Fatah feels ’embarrassed’

House after facing massive backlash and criticism from walks of society over the decision to restrict ‘girls’ into the famous mosque in New Delhi, the Jama Masjid administration rolled back its draconian notice following Delhi LG VK Saxena’s request to the Shahi Imam.

The controversial notice, which had no date, came to the attention a few days ago when the three main entry gates of the 17th-century Mughal-era Mosque. “Jama Masjid me ladki ya ladkiyon ka akele daakhila mana hain (The entry of a girl or girls is not permitted in Jama Masjid,” read the notice.

Explaining the decision to ban the entrance of a single girl or a group of girls in the mosque, Shahi Imam Syed Ahmed Bukhari said the decision was taken after a few incidents of girls waiting for their dates were noticed. “Girls coming to offer their prayers are allowed, but not for other reasons,” Shahi Imam told PTI.

Tarek Fatah, author and a newspaper columnist, told The Quotes that such decisions and norms are absolutely bizarre.

“A progressive approach is the need of the hour, and these decisions or rules will only push us back as a society. As a Muslim, I feel ashamed of such incidents in such a prominent holy place,” Tarek Fatah said.

Soon after the intervention of Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, the controversial norm was withdrawal from the Shahi Imam, suggesting girls maintain the sanctity of the premises.

Earlier, National Commission for Women requested the Centre and the Delhi government for appropriate action against the ban. Meanwhile, DCW Chief Swati Maliwal termed it a violation of women’s rights and sought a detailed action taken report on the matter by November 28.