During a recent hearing regarding the installation of a statue of Rani Lakshmibai in Shahi Idgah Park, a representative from the Idgah Management Committee confirmed that the statue is already in place. The Delhi High Court directed concerned agencies to send a three-member team to inspect the statue’s location.
Court’s Concerns and Apology
The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) stated it respects religious sentiments and reported that a wall surrounds three sides of the statue. The statue sits 200 meters away from the Idgah wall. The court will continue the case on October 7. The Shahi Idgah Managing Committee submitted a written apology to the court during the hearing. Previously, the court had instructed the lawyer to provide this apology and requested that communal politics be kept out of legal proceedings.
Issues Raised in the Hearing
The court criticized the language used in the appeal as insulting, suggesting it was an attempt to politicize the issue. The judges highlighted that the area is subject to beautification efforts directed by the High Court itself, following requests from the community. They expressed displeasure at arguments suggesting that the installation of the statue could disturb law and order, asserting that Rani Lakshmibai is a national hero and a source of pride. The court previously stated that the petitioner has no legal or fundamental right to oppose the maintenance of the park around Shahi Idgah. The committee referenced a 1970 gazette notification designating Shahi Idgah Park as an ancient property from the Mughal era, stating it can accommodate over 50,000 people for prayers.
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