Prayagraj: The Prayagraj division of the North Central Railway (NCR) has issued a notice to the management of a mosque located adjacent to gate 1 of the city side of Prayagraj Junction, asking them to vacate the premises by Apr 24, citing that the structure stands on railway land earmarked for redevelopment.According to officials, the move is part of a major modification and expansion plan for the Prayagraj Junction, under which the land is required for infrastructure work. The notice has been served to the mosque’s mutawalli, directing them to clear the site to facilitate demolition.Prayagraj division PRO, Amit Kumar Singh said, “The notice has been served to the mosque management to vacate the premises. If they have any documents to prove ownership of the land, they should submit them to the railways so that the matter can be examined and contested further as per due process.”However, those associated with the mosque have contested the railway’s claim, stating that the structure predates Independence and falls under waqf property. They argue that the mosque is centuries old and legally registered, making its demolition unjustified.Sources indicate that members of the mosque committee are preparing to approach the Allahabad high court to challenge the notice. Meanwhile, railway authorities maintain that the redevelopment project cannot proceed unless the land is vacated.The situation remains tense, with both sides firm on their positions, as the deadline for vacating the premises approaches.
