Worshippers wore black armbands in a peaceful protest after authorities suspended Friday prayers at the Bakra Masjid near Kolkata's international airport [1].
The dispute highlights the tension between aviation security protocols and the preservation of religious practices at historic sites located within operational zones [1].
Airport authorities halted the Friday Namaz at the mosque, which is situated approximately 165 metres [2] from the runway of the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport [2]. Officials said that the suspension was necessary due to security concerns within the airport's operational area [1].
Siddiqullah Chowdhury, president of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind (West Bengal), called for the protest to voice opposition to the access ban [1]. The Bakra Masjid, also known as the Bankra mosque, is a historic site that has stood for 136 years [3].
Security was increased near the mosque following the call for protests [1]. The worshippers used the black armbands as a non-violent means of demonstrating their grievance over the loss of access to the 136-year-old [3] structure for their weekly prayers.
The mosque's proximity to the runway, just 165 metres [2], has made it a focal point for security screenings and restrictions as airport operations evolve. While the protesters sought to maintain their religious traditions, the airport administration said that the operational zone requires strict access control to ensure safety [1].
“Worshippers wore black armbands in a peaceful protest after authorities suspended Friday prayers.”
This incident underscores the recurring conflict between urban infrastructure expansion and the protection of heritage sites. As airports implement stricter security perimeters, historic religious landmarks located in 'operational zones' face increasing pressure, potentially leading to permanent closures or restricted access that challenges local community rights and cultural preservation.
