Mosque trust seeks additional 20acre for medical facility

Ayodhya: The

Ayodhya mosque

Trust also called Indo Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) has moved the Uttar Pradesh government, seeking to purchase an additional 20acre in Dhannipur village alongside the allotted 5acre mandated by Supreme Court, for developing a world-class medical facility.

During a crucial meeting of the Trust held via video-conferencing on Wednesday, the members expressed concern over non-issuance of tax exemption for donors to the mosque project under Section 80G of IT Act. “This is impeding flow of donations to the project,” said IICF chief Zufar Farooqui, who chaired the meet. In another significant decision, the Trust will be launching a charitable ambulance service in Ayodhya district to mitigate suffering of Covid patients.

IICF secretary Athar Husain and 10 Trustees, including Captain Afzal Ahmad from Ayodhya discussed pending issues, including submission of the project blueprint to the development authority and a follow-up on FCRA norms after 80G tax exemption by income tax department. Captain Afzal Ahmad, who is pursuing sanction of the project blueprint, said, the Ayodhya Development Authority vice-chairman has assured early approval.

The Trust also expressed concern at the demolition of a century-old mosque at Ram Sanehi Ghat in Barabanki, barely 45km off the new mosque site at Dhannipur. The razing of the mosque violated a court stay on any demolition during the pandemic and the structure should be rebuilt, said IICF members.

Talking to TOI, IICF secretary Athar Hussain said, “We request the state and Central governments to provide necessary clearances to enable us to begin work.”