Bombay HC denies permission to offer prayers in mosque during Ramzan

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday rejected a petition seeking permission for Muslims to offer prayers in mosques during Ramzan. A local Muslim trust in South Mumbai had filed a petition in the Bombay High Court. The high court refused to grant permission in the view of restrictions imposed by the government to contain Covid-19 pandemic.

"Considering the prevailing situation and ground reality in Maharashtra, we cannot permit the petitioner to offer prayers at the mosque," said the bench consisting of Justices Dhanuka and VG Bisht.

“The right to celebrate or follow a religious practice is important but what is more paramount and of importance is public order and safety of citizens," the bench added. The Juma Masjid of Bombay Trust had sought permission for 50 persons to be allowed at the mosque at a time to offer prayers.

The bench of the High Court observed that the safety of the citizens is of utmost importance and priority. The Maharashtra government has imposed strict restrictions in the state through 'Break the Chain' campaign to curb the spread of the coronavirus.