Exclusive | Central Vista Upgrade: After Assurance in High Court, Krishi Bhawan Mosque Not in New Building Plan

In a significant development related to the Central Vista redevelopment project, the government has informed the Delhi High Court that the mosque located within the Krishi Bhawan complex will not be included in the proposed new building plan.

The assurance was given during court proceedings concerning redevelopment activities in the national capital. The clarification aims to address concerns raised about the status of the religious structure amid large-scale construction under the Central Vista project.

Government’s Assurance in Court

During the hearing, government representatives stated that the existing mosque at Krishi Bhawan would remain unaffected by the proposed redevelopment. Officials clarified that no demolition or alteration of the mosque is planned as part of the construction blueprint.

The Delhi High Court recorded the submission, providing clarity on the matter that had sparked public discussion and legal scrutiny.

Sources indicate that the court sought explicit confirmation regarding the mosque’s status after concerns were raised in petitions related to redevelopment and preservation of structures within the Central Vista zone.

What Is the Central Vista Upgrade?

The Central Vista project is one of India’s largest redevelopment initiatives, aimed at modernizing key government buildings and administrative infrastructure in New Delhi. The project includes:

• Construction of new Parliament building (already completed)

• Redevelopment of Central Secretariat

• Modern office complexes for ministries

• Improved public spaces and infrastructure

Krishi Bhawan, which houses the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, is part of the broader redevelopment plan intended to create upgraded administrative facilities.

Background of the Legal Challenge

The issue reached the Delhi High Court after concerns were expressed regarding the possible impact of redevelopment on existing structures within the complex. Petitioners sought clarity on whether religious or heritage structures would be affected by the new design.

With the government’s assurance on record, the immediate apprehensions surrounding the mosque appear to have been addressed.

Legal experts note that court-recorded assurances carry significant weight, and any deviation from the submitted position could attract judicial scrutiny.

Public and Political Reactions

The clarification has drawn attention amid ongoing debates around urban redevelopment and preservation of existing structures. While the Central Vista project has been positioned as a modernization effort, it has also faced criticism and legal challenges at various stages.

Observers say that such assurances help reduce tensions and ensure transparency in sensitive matters involving religious sites.

What Happens Next?

The Central Vista redevelopment continues in phases. Officials maintain that all construction is being carried out in compliance with legal approvals and environmental clearances.

Further hearings may review broader aspects of the project, but regarding the Krishi Bhawan mosque, the government’s position is now officially placed before the court.

FAQ

Q1: Will the Krishi Bhawan mosque be demolished?
No. The government told the Delhi High Court that the mosque is not part of the new redevelopment plan.

Q2: Why was the issue raised in court?
Concerns were raised about whether redevelopment activities would affect the mosque.

Q3: What is the Central Vista project?
It is a large-scale redevelopment plan to modernize key government buildings in New Delhi.

Q4: Has the court passed any final order?
The court has recorded the government’s assurance. Further proceedings may continue on related matters.