India Responds to Concern over Historic Mosque Demolition
India has firmly rejected comments made by Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari regarding the potential demolition of the historic Masjid Ganj Shaheeda mosque in Varanasi. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs criticized Zardari’s remarks, stating that he has no right to interfere in India’s internal matters.
Official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed that such comments are especially inappropriate given Pakistan’s own issues with human rights. Jaiswal emphasized, “These statements are unfounded and absurd.”
In a message shared on social media, Zardari voiced his worries about the mosque and urged India to halt any plans for its demolition. He warned that such actions could lead to further unrest within the region.
The mosque, which has stood for a thousand years, is reportedly at risk due to a legal notice issued by Indian railway authorities, claiming it is located on railway land. This notice requires the mosque to be removed by June 20, or it will face demolition.
However, the mosque’s managing committee disputed the notice, pointing out the absence of any official stamp or signature. They have requested an investigation into the validity of these claims and urged railway authorities to refrain from any demolition actions.
