The Allahabad High Court strongly criticized the Sambhal district administration in Uttar Pradesh for restricting the number of people allowed to offer Namaz at a mosque citing law-and-order concerns. The Court said that maintaining law and order is the duty of the State, not a ground to curtail constitutional rights.
Key Observations
The Court held that authorities cannot limit the number of worshippers merely on apprehension of law-and-order problems.
It emphasized that every community has the right to offer prayers peacefully at a designated place of worship.
The Bench remarked that if the Superintendent of Police (SP) and District Magistrate (Collector) are unable to maintain law and order, they should resign or seek transfer rather than restrict religious practices.
Background
The dispute arose after the local administration limited the number of people offering Namaz at a mosque in Sambhal during Ramzan, reportedly allowing only about 20 worshippers at a time.
The restriction was challenged before the High Court as a violation of religious freedom.
Court’s Stand
The Court reiterated that administrative authorities must enforce the rule of law and ensure peaceful worship instead of imposing arbitrary restrictions on fundamental rights.
Legal Principle:
Authorities cannot curtail religious practices solely due to anticipated law-and-order concerns; maintaining order is the responsibility of the State.
