Mosque prayers suspended at Kolkata airport; here's why
Access to a historic mosque located within the Kolkata airport operational area has been temporarily suspended for repairs, sparking a debate about aviation security. Local officials have suggested the mosque should be relocated to ensure safety.
Why it matters
Highlights the tension between religious heritage, operational security, and urban planning in high-security zones.
KOLKATA: Access to the 136-year-old Bankra mosque inside airport’s operational area has been suspended for two days, till Sunday, after airport authorities cited rain damage to the approach road and began urgent repairs. Devotees may resume namaz from Monday if work ends on schedule.Local resident Sarafat Ali, who prays there, said he learnt of the curbs when he reached the gate around 4am for Fajr namaz.“The CISF stopped me at the gate and said prayers would not be held due to ‘safeguard’ procedure that is enforced when visibility is poor. Usually, this happens in winter when there is fog. On Saturday, it was slightly overcast and we thought that was the reason for the restriction.
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