Ayodhya Mosque-Construction Project In Limbo Over Severe Fund Crunch

The Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) has dissolved four committees, including one for shrine development. This decision aims to speed up resource mobilization for the Dhannipur mosque in Ayodhya, which is experiencing a severe funding crunch. IICF chairman Zufar Faruqi announced the change during a meeting in Lucknow on Thursday. The IICF now focuses on improving coordination and expediting the permissions process under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA). Once they secure these approvals, they can seek donations from the international community.

Concerns Over Slow Fundraising Efforts

IICF members admitted that it is humiliating to have raised only about Rs 1 crore in the last four years. This amount follows the granting of a five-acre property in Dhannipur village to replace the mosque that a mob demolished on December 6, 1992. The trust sent relevant documents to the Centre in March, aiming to expedite the mosque construction. Secretary Athar Husain confirmed this focus.

The IICF has abolished its administrative, financial, development, and media committees. Members stated this restructuring emphasizes obtaining necessary approvals. They hope to move the stalled mosque construction project forward. After a lengthy legal battle, the Supreme Court granted a 2.77-acre plot for a Ram temple and five acres for the mosque on November 9, 2019. While the Ram temple is nearly complete, the mosque project remains on hold due to funding shortages.

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