The Union government has urged the Karnataka High Court to instruct the Mandya district administration and the state government to remove a madrasa operating within the Jama Masjid in Srirangapatna, a site designated as a protected monument in 1951. The Waqf Board, opposing this move, asserted that the mosque is its property and defended the madrasa’s operations as lawful.
The issue was brought to the court following a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Abhishek Gowda from Kanakapura taluk, alleging “unauthorised madrasa activities” at the mosque.
Representing the Union government, Additional Solicitor General K Arvind Kamath argued that despite the site’s protected status, madrasa activities continue. He cited concerns over law and order issues, which have deterred intervention thus far, and requested court directives for action.
On the other hand, legal representatives for the state government and the Waqf Board countered the claim by stating that the Waqf Board has been the recognized owner of the property since 1963. They maintained that madrasa operations within the mosque are legitimate under Waqf law.
The division bench, led by Chief Justice N V Anjaria, adjourned the case for further arguments, scheduling the next hearing for November 20.
