The Supreme Court has issued strict directives to the DDA regarding the Mehrauli Dargah and other historical structures

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has issued a significant directive concerning the Ashiqullah Dargah and the Challagah of Sufi saint Baba Sheikh Fariduddin, located in Mehrauli, Delhi. The court firmly stated that no new construction or alterations are to be made at these sites. The case was heard by a bench comprising Justices B.V. Nagarthana and R. Mahadevan.

During the hearing, Justice Nagarthana questioned the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) about their intention to demolish the structures. The DDA responded that the area is classified as a forest zone and expressed concerns about unauthorized construction near the dargah.

Advocate Nizam Pasha argued that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has designated the shrine as a 12th-century monument, rendering the opinions of any religious committee irrelevant. He also asserted that there is no unauthorized construction at the site. The DDA stated it would only protect parts of the structure as directed by the ASI.

The issue arose from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking to halt the demolition of the dargah and Challagah. The Delhi High Court, while disposing of the petition, had ruled that these monuments are not officially protected. Subsequently, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court challenging the High Court’s decision.

The Supreme Court has now made it clear that no tampering, demolition, or new construction will be permitted, ensuring that the existing condition of the Dargah and Challagah remains unchanged. This ruling effectively protects these historical and religious sites in Mehrauli from any demolition for the time being.