Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Apr 22: Remnants of a structure resembling temple is unearthed at the Malali Market Mosque, falling under Ganjimath gram panchayat limits. This has caused curiosity among the locals and other people who are thronging to see the structure.
The mosque’s renovation work is in progress since some days. Some part of the mosque is already demolished. Around mid-day on Thursday April 21, public could see the remains of a temple. This matter went viral within no time and scores of people, Hindu organizations rushed to the spot. However, police denied entry to public since the afternoon to prevent any untoward incident.
Public could not see the inside structure on the land of mosque for so many days due to the compound wall. When the compound wall was demolished on Thursday, the structure could be seen to general public. So they could make out that the structure resembling temple is seen on the land of mosque.
Some people are saying that the structure looks like a temple while others are of the opinion that it resembles a Jain Basadi.
Officials rushed to the spot and are investigating. Deputy commissioner (DC) Dr Rajendra K V said, “Property documents of the land will be verified. A report will be sought from Muzrai department as well as Wakf Board. Suitable action will be taken based on the details. At present status quo needs to be maintained. People should not create chaos by listening to hearsay.”
Sharan Pumpwell, divisional secretary of VHP, visited the spot and inspected the structure. He said, “Prima facie it looks like old temple is converted into a mosque. The inside and outside the building the style of construction resembles that of a temple. The gram panchayat should cancel the renovation permission given to the mosque under licence 11/2021/22. The archaeological department should hold investigation. Action should be taken to allow the structure to be in same state.”
MLA Dr Bharath Shetty said, “The land which was allotted to build a mosque in 2001 was a government land. Later, after getting registered with Wakf board, mosque is constructed. As signs of temples are seen in the structure, instructions are given for comprehensive investigation. Till then work will be stopped.”
Purandar, tahsildar of Mangaluru said, “In 2001, 90 cents land was sanctioned for building a mosque. Inspection is undertaken now as well as discussion is held with the mosque committee. I have informed the same to DC.”