AAI Opposes Interim prayer orders at Kolkata airport Mosque
The Airports Authority of India has objected to requests for interim permission to resume prayers at the historic mosque located on Kolkata airport premises, citing security and land‑use concerns.
Legal Opposition
AAI told the Calcutta High Court that it opposes an interim order to allow prayers at the Bankra Mosque on the airport grounds, arguing that the mosque sits on public land acquired for airport expansion.
State counsel also opposed the interim order, questioning the maintainability of the petition and emphasizing national security considerations.
Security Arguments
AAI cited a 1961 notification and compensation paid to local residents as basis for restricting access, and said security deficiencies were highlighted in a letter received on May 13, 2026.
Additional Solicitor General Dhiraj Kumar Trivedi argued that entering the mosque via the runway poses a security threat, while CISF and the state echoed concerns about national security.
Court Proceedings
AAI, represented by senior advocate S N Mookherjee, pleaded against any interim order, referencing events on July 11 and a court appearance on August 27.
AAI held a stakeholder meeting on May 23, 2026, following the May 13 letter on security deficiencies.