Jama Masjid

The f our-member DDMA team led by district project officer Neelofar Nizami, took photographs of damaged portions. “A preliminary report would be prepared based on the inspection, which will be handed over to the district magistrate. Since the masjid witnesses a heavy footfall, especially during the Friday prayers, efforts were needed to keep a check on the damage and ensure proper monitoring to avoid any mishap,” said an official accompanying the group.

Nidhi Srivastava, district magistrate (central district), said a team of officials was sent following the directions from divisional commissioner Manisha Saxena to evaluate the extent of damage. It will submit a report on Friday.

“Cracks in domes, pillars, and arches are clearly visible. Stones at some places have left their original positions. The structure requires major renovation, which may take years,” said a member of the visiting team who asked not to be named. the notifications were validated by law, Divan said government could not have released directives that were violative of the court’s orders despite having legislation.

“Though the Act was enacted, Union of India will still have to approach the court and seek variation in the interim order,” he said.

Senior advocate Gopal Subramanium, representing another petitioner said, SC had insulated citizens against compulsion to part with biometrics.

“An interim order protecting citizens fundamental rights cannot be obliterated by legislation,” he told the court, insisting the government should have maintained sanctity of the judicial order.