Race Course Masjid: Delhi High Court rejects petition to restore utilities near PM residence

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking the restoration of disconnected electricity and water supplies to the historic Race Course Masjid, located within the Race Course Club complex near the Prime Minister's residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. Meanwhile, local administrative authorities have ensured that Friday prayers continue without disruption, maintaining strict public safety, security, and administrative order across the area.

Dismissing the petition filed by imam Mohd Haroon, Justice Saurabh Banerjee held that the case involved disputed questions of fact that could not be resolved in a writ petition. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) had disconnected utility services on 7 October as part of broader land clearance operations. Civic officials submitted to the court that restoring power while demolition work and structural clearing were underway would create public safety hazards.

Security measures and legal findings

Central authorities have cited national security considerations in taking possession of the 53-acre complex adjacent to the Prime Minister’s residence. Government officials clarified that no eviction notice has been issued to the mosque itself, demonstrating a measured approach to securing the high-security zone while respecting religious sites.

Despite the ongoing works, civic administration and local police have coordinated to facilitate orderly religious observance. Worshippers gathered for Jumma prayers under police supervision, reflecting proactive administrative management aimed at preserving public harmony and order.

Administrative context

In its ruling, the High Court noted that the Delhi Waqf Board, the legal occupant of the premises, had not challenged the disconnection in these proceedings. The court observed that the imam had been appointed by the Waqf Board and possessed no independent property rights that would support a claim of fundamental rights violations.

The NDMC further noted that the premises fell within the scope of an August High Court judgment authorizing the removal of informal settlements near the Prime Minister's residence. Those residents have since been systematically relocated and rehabilitated in Savda Ghevra, approximately 50 kilometres away, as part of the capital's planned security and infrastructure arrangements.

While the Delhi Waqf Board had earlier requested utility restoration from civic agencies, administrative oversight of the board has remained stable under government-appointed administrators since January 2024, ensuring smooth functional governance across notified properties in the capital.