Four people were killed and several others injured in a shooting near a mosque in Oman's capital, Muscat. Watch in for more details!

Four killed in shooting near a mosque in Oman

<p><strong>Muscat Mosque Shooting: </strong>The Foreign Ministry of Oman&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday (Jul 16) said&nbsp;that one Indian national also lost his life in the shooting incident that targeted a mosque in the capital city of Muscat. A total of six people died in the attack, including four Pakistanis, and more than 50 sustained injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Following the shooting incident reported in Muscat city on 15 July, &nbsp;Foreign Ministry of Sultanate of Oman has informed that one Indian national has lost his life &amp; another is injured. Embassy offers its sincere condolences &amp; stands ready to offer all assistance to the families," the Indian embassy in Muscat said on social media site X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Following the shooting incident reported in Muscat city on 15 July, Foreign Ministry of Sultanate of Oman has informed that one Indian national has lost his life &amp; another is injured. Embassy offers its sincere condolences &amp; stands ready to offer all assistance to the families.</p>
— India in Oman (Embassy of India, Muscat) (@Indemb_Muscat) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indemb_Muscat/status/1813212451938451933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Royal Oman Police said the three perpetrators were also killed.</p>

<p>"The Oman Royal police offer condolences to the families of those dead and wish speedy recovery for the injured," the force said in a statement.</p>

<p>The Pakistani envoy in Oman said at least 50 Pakistani nationals were injured in the attack.&nbsp;Imran Ali told local media that at least 20 Pakistani expatriates were being treated for bullet wounds.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered his condolences to those who died and were injured and offered assistance to the Oman government in the investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My heart goes out to the families of the victims. I have instructed the Pakistan Embassy in Muscat to extend all possible assistance to the injured and visit the hospitals personally," wrote Sharif on X.</p>

<p>"Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Sultanate of Oman and offers full assistance in the investigation," he added.</p>

<p>The attack, which happened Monday (Jul 15)&nbsp;night, unfolded&nbsp;outside Imam Ali Mosque in the Wadi Kabir area as the local Shi'ite population celebrated a major religious event on the ninth day of&nbsp;Muharram.</p>

<p>Oman is considered one of the safest nations in the world and such shooting incidents are rare.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Muscat Mosque Shooting: The Foreign Ministry of Oman on Tuesday (Jul 16) said that one Indian national also lost his life in the shooting incident that targeted a mosque in the capital city of Muscat.

Muscat Mosque Shooting: The Foreign Ministry of Oman on Tuesday (Jul 16) said that one Indian national also lost his life in the shooting incident that targeted a mosque in the capital city of Muscat. A total of six people died in the attack, including four Pakistanis, and more than 50 sustained injuries. "Following the shooting incident reported in Muscat city on 15 July, Foreign Ministry of Sultanate of Oman has informed that one Indian national has lost his life & another is injured. Embassy offers its sincere condolences & stands ready to offer all assistance to the families," the Indian embassy in Muscat said on social media site X. Following the shooting incident reported in Muscat city on 15 July, Foreign Ministry of Sultanate of Oman has informed that one Indian national has lost his life & another is injured. Embassy offers its sincere condolences & stands ready to offer all assistance to the families. — India in Oman (Embassy of India, Muscat) (@Indemb_Muscat) July 16, 2024 × Royal Oman Police said the three perpetrators were also killed. "The Oman Royal police offer condolences to the families of those dead and wish speedy recovery for the injured," the force said in a statement. The Pakistani envoy in Oman said at least 50 Pakistani nationals were injured in the attack. Imran Ali told local media that at least 20 Pakistani expatriates were being treated for bullet wounds. Also read: 7,000 historical documents of Indian diaspora in Oman digitised Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered his condolences to those who died and were injured and offered assistance to the Oman government in the investigation. "My heart goes out to the families of the victims. I have instructed the Pakistan Embassy in Muscat to extend all possible assistance to the injured and visit the hospitals personally," wrote Sharif on X. "Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Sultanate of Oman and offers full assistance in the investigation," he added. The attack, which happened Monday (Jul 15) night, unfolded outside Imam Ali Mosque in the Wadi Kabir area as the local Shi'ite population celebrated a major religious event on the ninth day of Muharram. Oman is considered one of the safest nations in the world and such shooting incidents are rare. (With inputs from agencies)

Muscat mosque shooting: One Indian national among six dead, attackers killed

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<p>After radical modification and what is&nbsp;being called&nbsp;as&nbsp;“sinicisation", China's last&nbsp;major&nbsp;mosque - which once had Arabic-style architectural features&nbsp;- has now lost its domes and minarets, according to a report published in The Guardian.</p>

<p>China’s&nbsp;grandest mosque, the Grand Mosque of Shadian, is&nbsp;located&nbsp;in a small town in southwestern Yunnan province.</p>

<p>Till last year, the 21,000 square metre complex was a large building with a tiled green dome at the top which was adorned with a crescent moon. Four long minarets and two small domes&nbsp;flanked the big dome.</p>

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<p>However, in the latest photographs, the dome appears to have been replaced with a Han Chinese-style pagoda rooftop, as per the report.</p>

<p>Also, the heights of minarets have been decreased and they have been converted into pagoda towers. It has also been reported that there is a faint trace of the crescent moon and star tiles.</p>

<h2><strong>China's 'Sinification of Islam'</strong></h2>

<p>Nearly 100 miles from Shadian,&nbsp;another landmark mosque of Yunnan was also renovated recently and its Arabic features were removed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese government in 2018 published&nbsp;a five-year plan on the “sinification of Islam”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A part of the plan was to resist “foreign architectural styles” and to promote “Islamic architecture … that is full of Chinese characteristics”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a leaked&nbsp;memo of the Chinese Communist party, it was seen that local authorities were asked to “adhere to the principle of demolishing more and building less”.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China-Taiwan tensions: Is China preparing to invade Taiwan?</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking to The Guardian, Anthropologist at Cornell University Ruslan Yusupov said, “Sinification of these two landmark mosques marks the success of the campaign. Even if there are small mosques left of Arab style in villages, it will be difficult for local communities to contest their sinicisation”.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, &nbsp;a historian of Islam in China at the University of Plymouth Hannah Theaker said that the&nbsp;mosque sinicisation campaign was moved ahead “province by province”, with Yunnan being the farthest province from the capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“By 2023, there was a sense among communities that architectural sinicisation would reach the famous Yunnanese mosques, as the last major&nbsp;unsinicised&nbsp;mosques in China," Theaker&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>The Grand Mosque of Shadian was first built in the Ming dynasty and destroyed amid the cultural revolution in an uprising which was called the Shadian incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After radical modification and what is being called as “sinicisation", China's last major mosque - which once had Arabic-style architectural features - has now lost its domes and minarets, according to a report published in The Guardian.

After radical modification and what is being called as “sinicisation", China's last major mosque - which once had Arabic-style architectural features - has now lost its domes and minarets, according to a report published in The Guardian. China’s grandest mosque, the Grand Mosque of Shadian, is located in a small town in southwestern Yunnan province. Till last year, the 21,000 square metre complex was a large building with a tiled green dome at the top which was adorned with a crescent moon. Four long minarets and two small domes flanked the big dome. Also Read: Taiwan slams China for 'blatant provocation' after Beijing's military drills around self-ruled island ends However, in the latest photographs, the dome appears to have been replaced with a Han Chinese-style pagoda rooftop, as per the report. Also, the heights of minarets have been decreased and they have been converted into pagoda towers. It has also been reported that there is a faint trace of the crescent moon and star tiles. China's 'Sinification of Islam' Nearly 100 miles from Shadian, another landmark mosque of Yunnan was also renovated recently and its Arabic features were removed. The Chinese government in 2018 published a five-year plan on the “sinification of Islam”. A part of the plan was to resist “foreign architectural styles” and to promote “Islamic architecture … that is full of Chinese characteristics”. In a leaked memo of the Chinese Communist party, it was seen that local authorities were asked to “adhere to the principle of demolishing more and building less”. Watch: China-Taiwan tensions: Is China preparing to invade Taiwan? Speaking to The Guardian, Anthropologist at Cornell University Ruslan Yusupov said, “Sinification of these two landmark mosques marks the success of the campaign. Even if there are small mosques left of Arab style in villages, it will be difficult for local communities to contest their sinicisation”. Meanwhile, a historian of Islam in China at the University of Plymouth Hannah Theaker said that the mosque sinicisation campaign was moved ahead “province by province”, with Yunnan being the farthest province from the capital. “By 2023, there was a sense among communities that architectural sinicisation would reach the famous Yunnanese mosques, as the last major unsinicised mosques in China," Theaker said. The Grand Mosque of Shadian was first built in the Ming dynasty and destroyed amid the cultural revolution in an uprising which was called the Shadian incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Domes, minarets disappear from China’s last Arabic-style mosque, replaced by pagoda rooftop, towers

<p>Bangladesh in 2013 took a step towards recognising the rights of its transgender women, also referred to as Hijra, by acknowledging them as a third gender. This decision was an important one in the struggle for equality and acceptance for the community in the country.</p>

<p>And now, the South Asian country has opened a mosque specifically for members of the Hijra community near Mymensingh, located north of the capital Dhaka in Bangladesh.</p>

<p>This comes amid challenges faced by the community in Bangladesh, like in many other Muslim-majority societies, because Hijras challenge traditional binary understandings of gender which leads to social stigma.</p>

<p>Led by the 28-year-old community leader, Joyita Tonu, the opening ceremony reportedly spoke on the importance of providing a space free from discrimination.</p>

<p>"From now on, no one can deny a hijra from praying in our mosque," Tonu said while adding,&nbsp;"No one can mock us."&nbsp;</p>

<p>For many transgender individuals, the mosque is now a symbol of a newfound sense of belonging.&nbsp; A 42-year-old Sonia said, "I never dreamt I could pray at a mosque again in my lifetime."</p>

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<p>Founder of a hijra charity Mufti Abdur Rahman Azad told AFP that the new mosque has the status as the first-of-its-kind in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, interpretations of Islamic religious texts by some hardliners view transgender identities as incompatible with&nbsp;Islamic teachings and this in turn leads to rejection and discrimination within the Muslim communities.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The 65-year-old mosque's imam, Abdul Motaleb, pointed out that the teachings of Islam embrace the community. "They are like any other people created by Allah," he affirmed.</p>

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<p>"We all are human beings. Maybe some are men, some are women, but all are human. Allah revealed the Holy Koran for all, so everyone has the right to pray, no one can be denied," the imam told AFP.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bangladesh in 2013 took a step towards recognising the rights of its transgender women, also referred to as Hijra, by acknowledging them as a third gender. This decision was an important one in the struggle for equality and acceptance for the community in the country.

Bangladesh in 2013 took a step towards recognising the rights of its transgender women, also referred to as Hijra, by acknowledging them as a third gender. This decision was an important one in the struggle for equality and acceptance for the community in the country. And now, the South Asian country has opened a mosque specifically for members of the Hijra community near Mymensingh, located north of the capital Dhaka in Bangladesh. This comes amid challenges faced by the community in Bangladesh, like in many other Muslim-majority societies, because Hijras challenge traditional binary understandings of gender which leads to social stigma. Led by the 28-year-old community leader, Joyita Tonu, the opening ceremony reportedly spoke on the importance of providing a space free from discrimination. "From now on, no one can deny a hijra from praying in our mosque," Tonu said while adding, "No one can mock us." For many transgender individuals, the mosque is now a symbol of a newfound sense of belonging. A 42-year-old Sonia said, "I never dreamt I could pray at a mosque again in my lifetime." Also Read | Solar Eclipse 2024: FAA issues travel warning as stargazers prepare for April 8 Founder of a hijra charity Mufti Abdur Rahman Azad told AFP that the new mosque has the status as the first-of-its-kind in the country. Notably, interpretations of Islamic religious texts by some hardliners view transgender identities as incompatible with Islamic teachings and this in turn leads to rejection and discrimination within the Muslim communities. Also Read | China halts work on two projects in Pakistan following suicide attack The 65-year-old mosque's imam, Abdul Motaleb, pointed out that the teachings of Islam embrace the community. "They are like any other people created by Allah," he affirmed. Watch | Pakistan: China firm suspend power project after five engineers killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attack × "We all are human beings. Maybe some are men, some are women, but all are human. Allah revealed the Holy Koran for all, so everyone has the right to pray, no one can be denied," the imam told AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

A new first-of-its-kind mosque in Bangladesh opens doors for 'Hijra' community

<p>Allahabad High Court has refused to put a stay on prayers by Hindu devotees inside the mosque cellar, media reports said.&nbsp;After a Varanasi district court permitted Hindu devotees to carry out prayers inside the sealed 'Vyas ji Ka Tehkhana' area in the basement of the disputed Gyanvapi mosque, the Muslim side, taking legal action, had filed a revision petition in the high court.</p>

<p>This comes after a plea by the Muslim side for an urgent hearing was turned down by the Supreme Court, which directed them to approach the Allahabad High Court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the ongoing Gyanvapi Mosque dispute case, the Masjid Intezamia Committee filed a plea in the Allahabad High Court, where it is seeking a stay on the district court's decision. Counsel for the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, SFA Naqvi, stated that an urgent hearing into the case was sought by the Muslim side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Muslim side also staged demonstrations in protest of the district court's ruling with Committee urging Muslims to keep their shops shut on Friday (Feb 2).</p>

<p>Notably, this comes days after the Varanasi district court&nbsp;ruled in favour of allowing a priest to perform prayers before the idols in the southern cellar of the mosque. In a breakthrough development on Wednesday (Jan 31), prayers were conducted by&nbsp;Hindu devotees at the area allowed.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Last week, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) claimed that the mosque was built after the destruction of a large Hindu temple. The report suggested that the original structure was demolished and parts of it were used in the construction of the existing mosque.</p>

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<p>Temple trust president Nagendra Pandey remarked, "Vyas ji's cellar was opened after 31 years for prayers" at around 10.30 pm on Jan 31. The Gyanvapi mosque has four 'tahkhanas' (cellars) in the basement. One of these remains in the possession of the Vyas family. Vyas is a priest and a petitioner who sought to pray inside the mosque.</p>

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<p>It is worth noting that the district court while giving its ruling over the praying rights of Hindu devotees, had directed the local administration to make necessary arrangements within seven days.</p>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Allahabad High Court has refused to put a stay on prayers by Hindu devotees inside the mosque cellar, media reports said. After a Varanasi district court permitted Hindu devotees to carry out prayers inside the sealed 'Vyas ji Ka Tehkhana' area in the basement of the disputed Gyanvapi mosque, the Muslim side, taking legal action, had filed a revision petition in the high court.

Allahabad High Court has refused to put a stay on prayers by Hindu devotees inside the mosque cellar, media reports said. After a Varanasi district court permitted Hindu devotees to carry out prayers inside the sealed 'Vyas ji Ka Tehkhana' area in the basement of the disputed Gyanvapi mosque, the Muslim side, taking legal action, had filed a revision petition in the high court. This comes after a plea by the Muslim side for an urgent hearing was turned down by the Supreme Court, which directed them to approach the Allahabad High Court. In the ongoing Gyanvapi Mosque dispute case, the Masjid Intezamia Committee filed a plea in the Allahabad High Court, where it is seeking a stay on the district court's decision. Counsel for the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, SFA Naqvi, stated that an urgent hearing into the case was sought by the Muslim side. Muslim side also staged demonstrations in protest of the district court's ruling with Committee urging Muslims to keep their shops shut on Friday (Feb 2). Notably, this comes days after the Varanasi district court ruled in favour of allowing a priest to perform prayers before the idols in the southern cellar of the mosque. In a breakthrough development on Wednesday (Jan 31), prayers were conducted by Hindu devotees at the area allowed. Also Read | India weather update: Delhi-NCR woke up to heavy fog after rains, IMD predicts more rainfall in February Last week, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) claimed that the mosque was built after the destruction of a large Hindu temple. The report suggested that the original structure was demolished and parts of it were used in the construction of the existing mosque. Also Read | Mumbai bomb scare: Police alert after unknown person warns of six bombs Temple trust president Nagendra Pandey remarked, "Vyas ji's cellar was opened after 31 years for prayers" at around 10.30 pm on Jan 31. The Gyanvapi mosque has four 'tahkhanas' (cellars) in the basement. One of these remains in the possession of the Vyas family. Vyas is a priest and a petitioner who sought to pray inside the mosque. Watch | Another Indian student found dead in US, third case within a week × It is worth noting that the district court while giving its ruling over the praying rights of Hindu devotees, had directed the local administration to make necessary arrangements within seven days. (With inputs from agencies)

Gyanvapi mosque: Allahabad HC refuses Muslim side's plea against Hindu prayers inside 'Vyas ji Ka Tehkhana'

<p>A Varanasi court has granted permission for Hindu devotees to worship inside the sealed 'Vyas ji Ka Tehkhana' area in the basement of the disputed Gyanvapi mosque. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, who is representing the Hindu side, reportedly said, "Hindu side is&nbsp; allowed to offer prayers at 'Vyas Ka Tehkhana'. The District Administration will have to make arrangements within 7 days. Everyone will now have the right to perform puja."</p>

<p>Sudhir Tripathi, an advocate from the Hindu side, also said that the commencement of the puja is permitted within the next seven days.<br />
<br />
Advocate Jain said, "We intend to file a caveat in the Allahabad HC&nbsp;since the Muslim side has said it will appeal in higher court."<br />
<br />
Following the court's approval for puja at 'Vyas Ka Tehkhana' in the Gyanvapi mosque, petitioners and advocates on the Hindu side displayed a victory sign.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the basement of the mosque, there are four 'tehkhanas' (cellars). Currently, one is under the ownership of the Vyas family, the former residents of the premises. Vyas has filed a petition requesting permission to access the cellar and resume the pooja claiming that it was stopped arbitrarily by an order of the then state government.</p>

<h2><strong>Next court hearing on Feb 8</strong></h2>

<p>The court has fixed February 8 as the date of hearing on an application by the Gyanvapi mosque committee saying that the plea should be dismissed. "The cellar is a part of the Gyanvapi mosque. So worship could not be performed. Therefore, pooja should not be allowed," the mosque committee lawyer Akhlaque&nbsp;Ahmad was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.</p>

<h2><strong>ASI report findings&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) earlier presented a conclusive finding that a large Hindu temple once stood at the location of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Following this, four Hindu women approached the Supreme Court requesting a scientific survey of a sealed portion of the mosque.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It is submitted that for a proper and effective investigation, it is necessary that the ASI may be directed to undertake necessary excavation and use other scientific methods around the 'Shivlingam' (being claimed by Muslims as a fountain) for determining the nature of 'Shivlingam' and associated features without causing any damage to the object after removing artificial/modern walls/floors surrounding the 'Shivlingam',” according to the petition.</p>

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<p>The ASI&nbsp;survey revealed that modifications were made to the mosque using pillars and plaster from the pre-existing Hindu temple and that efforts were made to erase carvings on the pillars.</p>

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<p>The ASI report, spanning 839 pages, stated, "Based on scientific studies/survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Notably, the fountain area inside the mosque was sealed in 2022 following a Supreme Court order. The ASI conducted a scientific survey in response to a district court order from July 2023 to determine whether the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple.</p>
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A Varanasi court has granted permission for Hindu devotees to worship inside the sealed 'Vyas ji Ka Tehkhana' area in the basement of the disputed Gyanvapi mosque.

A Varanasi court has granted permission for Hindu devotees to worship inside the sealed 'Vyas ji Ka Tehkhana' area in the basement of the disputed Gyanvapi mosque. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, who is representing the Hindu side, reportedly said, "Hindu side is allowed to offer prayers at 'Vyas Ka Tehkhana'. The District Administration will have to make arrangements within 7 days. Everyone will now have the right to perform puja." Sudhir Tripathi, an advocate from the Hindu side, also said that the commencement of the puja is permitted within the next seven days. Advocate Jain said, "We intend to file a caveat in the Allahabad HC since the Muslim side has said it will appeal in higher court." Following the court's approval for puja at 'Vyas Ka Tehkhana' in the Gyanvapi mosque, petitioners and advocates on the Hindu side displayed a victory sign. In the basement of the mosque, there are four 'tehkhanas' (cellars). Currently, one is under the ownership of the Vyas family, the former residents of the premises. Vyas has filed a petition requesting permission to access the cellar and resume the pooja claiming that it was stopped arbitrarily by an order of the then state government. Next court hearing on Feb 8 The court has fixed February 8 as the date of hearing on an application by the Gyanvapi mosque committee saying that the plea should be dismissed. "The cellar is a part of the Gyanvapi mosque. So worship could not be performed. Therefore, pooja should not be allowed," the mosque committee lawyer Akhlaque Ahmad was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times. ASI report findings The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) earlier presented a conclusive finding that a large Hindu temple once stood at the location of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Following this, four Hindu women approached the Supreme Court requesting a scientific survey of a sealed portion of the mosque. “It is submitted that for a proper and effective investigation, it is necessary that the ASI may be directed to undertake necessary excavation and use other scientific methods around the 'Shivlingam' (being claimed by Muslims as a fountain) for determining the nature of 'Shivlingam' and associated features without causing any damage to the object after removing artificial/modern walls/floors surrounding the 'Shivlingam',” according to the petition. Also Read | Delhi weather: Light rain expected over next few days amid dense fog and dropping temperatures The ASI survey revealed that modifications were made to the mosque using pillars and plaster from the pre-existing Hindu temple and that efforts were made to erase carvings on the pillars. Also Read | India Election 2024: Is INDIA alliance a workable idea or just all talk? The ASI report, spanning 839 pages, stated, "Based on scientific studies/survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure." Watch | India Budget 2024 | Women, youth, farmers & poor are India's pillars of growth: President Murmu × Notably, the fountain area inside the mosque was sealed in 2022 following a Supreme Court order. The ASI conducted a scientific survey in response to a district court order from July 2023 to determine whether the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple.

India: Varanasi court grants Hindu devotees worship rights in sealed Gyanvapi Mosque basement

<p>A conclusive finding of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) indicated that&nbsp;a large Hindu temple existed at the site of Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, media reports said quoting advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side. As per the ASI findings, modifications were made to the mosque using pillars and plaster from the Hindu temple, with attempts to erase carvings on the pillars, as per Jain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Based on scientific studies/survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure," a portion of the ASI report said, according to news agency ANI.</p>

<p>"The ASI findings suggest that modifications were made to the mosque, reusing pillars and plaster with minor alterations. Some pillars from the Hindu temple were slightly modified for use in the new structure. Attempts were made to remove the carvings on the pillars," Jain said while pointing to the ASI report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjp-launches-campaign-song-evokes-pm-modis-popularity-watch-683664">Lok Sabha Election 2024: BJP launches campaign song, evokes PM Modi's popularity</a></p>

<p>The dispute revolves around a structure found during a court-mandated survey, with the Hindu side claiming it to be a 'Shivling,' while the Muslim side contends it is a fountain. The Varanasi court had ordered the ASI report to be made public, and lawyers for the Hindu side expressed confidence in their victory.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/padma-awards-2024-declared-on-indian-republic-day-eve-full-list-of-awardees-683648">Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees</a></p>

<p>Notably, after a Supreme Court order, the fountain area was sealed in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking further Jain said, "The ASI has said that based on the scientific studies survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure. A report of a total of 839 pages has been filed by ASI..."</p>

<p>The 839-page length report was filed by ASI.</p>

<p>Providing further details about the survey report, Jain said, "The ASI has said that Sculptures of Hindu deities and carved architectural members were found buried under the dumped soil... Existing architectural remains, decorated mouldings on the walls, a large decorated entrance gate, a small entrance with a mutilated image, and birds and animals carved for decoration in and outside suggest that the western wall are remaining part of a Hindu temple."</p>

<p>"The Arabic Persian inscription found inside a room mentions that the mosque was built in the 20th regnal year of Aurangzeb. Hence the preexisting structure appears to have been destroyed in the 17th century... Based on the scientific studies survey carried outstudy of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that an intricate study of pillars and plasters in corridors indicated that "Vyala figures carved on either side of the lotus medallion were mutilated and after removing the stone mass from the corners, that space was decorated with floral design."</p>

<p>"This observation is supported by two similar plasters still existing on the north and southern walls of the western chamber in their original place..."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-where-are-ayodhyas-treasures-being-kept-683668">Gravitas: Where are Ayodhya's treasures being kept?</a></strong></p>

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<p>The ASI conducted a scientific survey in response to a district court order from July 2023 to determine if the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A conclusive finding of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) indicated that a large Hindu temple existed at the site of Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, media reports said quoting advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side.

A conclusive finding of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) indicated that a large Hindu temple existed at the site of Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, media reports said quoting advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side. As per the ASI findings, modifications were made to the mosque using pillars and plaster from the Hindu temple, with attempts to erase carvings on the pillars, as per Jain. "Based on scientific studies/survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure," a portion of the ASI report said, according to news agency ANI. "The ASI findings suggest that modifications were made to the mosque, reusing pillars and plaster with minor alterations. Some pillars from the Hindu temple were slightly modified for use in the new structure. Attempts were made to remove the carvings on the pillars," Jain said while pointing to the ASI report. Also Read | Lok Sabha Election 2024: BJP launches campaign song, evokes PM Modi's popularity The dispute revolves around a structure found during a court-mandated survey, with the Hindu side claiming it to be a 'Shivling,' while the Muslim side contends it is a fountain. The Varanasi court had ordered the ASI report to be made public, and lawyers for the Hindu side expressed confidence in their victory. Also Read | Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees Notably, after a Supreme Court order, the fountain area was sealed in 2022. Speaking further Jain said, "The ASI has said that based on the scientific studies survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure. A report of a total of 839 pages has been filed by ASI..." The 839-page length report was filed by ASI. Providing further details about the survey report, Jain said, "The ASI has said that Sculptures of Hindu deities and carved architectural members were found buried under the dumped soil... Existing architectural remains, decorated mouldings on the walls, a large decorated entrance gate, a small entrance with a mutilated image, and birds and animals carved for decoration in and outside suggest that the western wall are remaining part of a Hindu temple." "The Arabic Persian inscription found inside a room mentions that the mosque was built in the 20th regnal year of Aurangzeb. Hence the preexisting structure appears to have been destroyed in the 17th century... Based on the scientific studies survey carried outstudy of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure," he added. He also said that an intricate study of pillars and plasters in corridors indicated that "Vyala figures carved on either side of the lotus medallion were mutilated and after removing the stone mass from the corners, that space was decorated with floral design." "This observation is supported by two similar plasters still existing on the north and southern walls of the western chamber in their original place..." Watch | Gravitas: Where are Ayodhya's treasures being kept? × The ASI conducted a scientific survey in response to a district court order from July 2023 to determine if the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple. (With inputs from agencies)

Gyanvapi mosque dispute: Hindu temple 'existed' at site, pillars reused, says Archaeological survey report

<p>An imam (the officiating priest of a mosque), identified as Imam Hassan Sharif, was shot outside Masjid Muhammad-Newark in Newark, New Jersey, around 6:15 am. The critically wounded Imam was&nbsp;transported to University hospital two blocks away, where he died from the injuries.</p>

<p>The shooter, dressed in all black, fled the scene. The victim was shot in the abdomen and right arm, as reported by NBC News.</p>

<p>Attorney General Matthew Platkin told NBC News&nbsp;that the shooting does not appear to be motivated by bias. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities exploring all possible angles. The FBI is not currently involved in the investigation.</p>

<h2><strong>Community concerns and tensions</strong></h2>

<p>The incident occurred amid heightened tensions following the Israel-Hamas war. While the motive remains unclear, requests for help and reports of bias&nbsp;against Muslims have increased across the US, according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).</p>

<p>The New Jersey chapter of CAIR expressed deep concern about the incident and urged anyone with information to contact the local police. CAIR is gathering information on the shooting and praying for the imam's speedy recovery.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/only-in-america-an-epidemic-of-gun-violence-without-a-cure-556046">Also read |&nbsp;Only in America: An epidemic of gun violence without a cure</a></p>

<p>Imam Hassan Sharif, an integral member of the mosque community, played a role in supporting new converts. A Newark resident, Saydah Maiga, told NBC News about Sharif's assistance during her conversion to Islam. Sharif served as an advisory board member for the mosque’s Social Services and Health Wellness programme.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US gun violence crisis: How easy is it to buy guns? | WION Wideangle</strong></p>

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<p>This shooting comes several months after an imam at the Omar Mosque in Paterson, near Newark, was stabbed while leading prayers. The suspect, Serif Zorba, faced charges, including attempted murder.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An imam (the officiating priest of a mosque), identified as Imam Hassan Sharif, was shot outside Masjid Muhammad-Newark in Newark, New Jersey, around 6:15 am. The critically wounded Imam was transported to University hospital two blocks away, where he died from the injuries.

An imam (the officiating priest of a mosque), identified as Imam Hassan Sharif, was shot outside Masjid Muhammad-Newark in Newark, New Jersey, around 6:15 am. The critically wounded Imam was transported to University hospital two blocks away, where he died from the injuries. The shooter, dressed in all black, fled the scene. The victim was shot in the abdomen and right arm, as reported by NBC News. Attorney General Matthew Platkin told NBC News that the shooting does not appear to be motivated by bias. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities exploring all possible angles. The FBI is not currently involved in the investigation. Community concerns and tensions The incident occurred amid heightened tensions following the Israel-Hamas war. While the motive remains unclear, requests for help and reports of bias against Muslims have increased across the US, according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). The New Jersey chapter of CAIR expressed deep concern about the incident and urged anyone with information to contact the local police. CAIR is gathering information on the shooting and praying for the imam's speedy recovery. Also read | Only in America: An epidemic of gun violence without a cure Imam Hassan Sharif, an integral member of the mosque community, played a role in supporting new converts. A Newark resident, Saydah Maiga, told NBC News about Sharif's assistance during her conversion to Islam. Sharif served as an advisory board member for the mosque’s Social Services and Health Wellness programme. Also watch | US gun violence crisis: How easy is it to buy guns? | WION Wideangle This shooting comes several months after an imam at the Omar Mosque in Paterson, near Newark, was stabbed while leading prayers. The suspect, Serif Zorba, faced charges, including attempted murder. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Newark mosque Imam dies after being shot, investigation underway

<p>The foundation stone for the proposed mosque in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya, replacing the controversial Babari Masjid, albeit at a different place, will be laid by&nbsp;Imam-e-Haram or the Imam who leads namaz at the holy mosque in the precincts that also house the Kaaba in Mecca.</p>

<p>Masjid Mohammad Bin Abdullah is being constructed almost 25 kilometres from Ayodhya on a plot of land that the Uttar Pradesh government gave to the Muslim party as part of the Supreme Court order in the case in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, as part of the judgement, the Hindu side got space over the demolished Babri Masjid to build the new Ram Temple while the Muslim side was given a separate piece of land for the construction of the mosque.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mosque, expected to be the biggest in India, will house the biggest Quran in the world with dimensions reading 21 feet high and 36 feet wide, according to&nbsp;Mumbai-based BJP leader Haji Arafat Shaikh, who has been made chairman of the Masjid Muhammad Bin Abdullah’s Development Committee.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhyas-ram-mandir-temple-set-to-open-for-public-from-january-2024-652711"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ayodhya's Ram Mandir (Temple) set to open for public from January 2024</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Beautiful than Taj Mahal</strong></h2>

<p>The mosque will have five minarets symbolising the&nbsp;five pillars of Islam — namely kalima, namaz, roza, Haj and zakat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shaikh added that the mosque will perhaps outshine the Taj Mahal, located in Agra and one of the seven wonders of the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It will be more beautiful than the Taj Mahal and people of all faiths will come to see this monument to peace and harmony even if not all of them will pray here.”</p>

<p>The start of the construction of the mosque comes at a time when the Ram Temple is nearing completion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone (Bhumi puja) in August 2020 and over three years later, he will be there to attend the consecration ceremony on January 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-in-ayodhya-receives-3000-applications-for-20-priest-posts-661188"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India: Ram temple in Ayodhya receives 3,000 applications for 20 priest posts</strong></a></p>

<p>Champat Rai, general secretary of the Sri Ram Janmbhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust, under whose aegis the temple is being constructed, had met PM Modi in October and confirmed that a Lord Ram idol will be installed in the sanctum sanctorum with the BJP leader attending the ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The foundation stone for the proposed mosque in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya, replacing the controversial Babari Masjid, albeit at a different place, will be laid by Imam-e-Haram or the Imam who leads namaz at the holy mosque in the precincts that also house the Kaaba in Mecca.

The foundation stone for the proposed mosque in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya, replacing the controversial Babari Masjid, albeit at a different place, will be laid by Imam-e-Haram or the Imam who leads namaz at the holy mosque in the precincts that also house the Kaaba in Mecca. Masjid Mohammad Bin Abdullah is being constructed almost 25 kilometres from Ayodhya on a plot of land that the Uttar Pradesh government gave to the Muslim party as part of the Supreme Court order in the case in 2019. Notably, as part of the judgement, the Hindu side got space over the demolished Babri Masjid to build the new Ram Temple while the Muslim side was given a separate piece of land for the construction of the mosque. The mosque, expected to be the biggest in India, will house the biggest Quran in the world with dimensions reading 21 feet high and 36 feet wide, according to Mumbai-based BJP leader Haji Arafat Shaikh, who has been made chairman of the Masjid Muhammad Bin Abdullah’s Development Committee. Watch | Ayodhya's Ram Mandir (Temple) set to open for public from January 2024 Beautiful than Taj Mahal The mosque will have five minarets symbolising the five pillars of Islam — namely kalima, namaz, roza, Haj and zakat. Shaikh added that the mosque will perhaps outshine the Taj Mahal, located in Agra and one of the seven wonders of the world. “It will be more beautiful than the Taj Mahal and people of all faiths will come to see this monument to peace and harmony even if not all of them will pray here.” The start of the construction of the mosque comes at a time when the Ram Temple is nearing completion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone (Bhumi puja) in August 2020 and over three years later, he will be there to attend the consecration ceremony on January 22. Also read | India: Ram temple in Ayodhya receives 3,000 applications for 20 priest posts Champat Rai, general secretary of the Sri Ram Janmbhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust, under whose aegis the temple is being constructed, had met PM Modi in October and confirmed that a Lord Ram idol will be installed in the sanctum sanctorum with the BJP leader attending the ceremony. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya mosque's foundation stone to be laid by Imam from Mecca, will 'outshine Taj Mahal'

<p>Suicide bombings targeting two mosques in Pakistan right on the birthday of Prophet Mohammad killed at least 57 people and injured dozens. No group claimed responsibility for the terror attacks immediately. The first blast took place in a mosque in Mastung city in the country's southwestern province of Balochistan killing at least 52 people. The second attack took place in a mosque in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region killing five people.</p>

<p>The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attack resulted in collapse of the mosque and it is believed that 30 to 40 people are still trapped under the rubble.</p>

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<p>"The bomber detonated himself near a police vehicle near Madina Mosque, where people were gathering for a procession," said senior police official Munir Ahmed as he spoke about Balochistan blast. He was quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>The attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa involved two explosions. One took place at the mosque gate while the other inside the mosque compound.</p>

<p>"Luckily one blast was at the gate so worshippers were able to exit the mosque; as a result the casualties are low," said the deputy commissioner of Hangu district, Fazal Akbar, as quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>Eyewitnesses at the site of the Balochistan bombing told the news agency that those dead included small children. Many people at the site were preparing to take part in the procession to mark Prophet Mohammad's birthday.</p>

<p>A police official was among the dead.</p>

<p>The mosque belonged to Barelvi sect of Islam which is considered more moderate than&nbsp;hardline sects such as Salafism.</p>

<p>Some hardline sects consider veneration of the Prophet Mohammad as heresy.</p>

<p>The attacks drew condemnation from Pakistani political leaders. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar, who is in Saudi Arabia for the religious Umrah pilgrimage, called for full support for blast victims.</p>

<p>The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) which has been responsible for some of the bloodiest attacks in Pakistan has denied that it carried out Friday's terror attacks.</p>

<p>The group had also denied involvement in a Peshawar police mosque bombing that killed 100 people in January this year. However, a faction of the umbrella group later claimed the attack.</p>

<p>In the month of July this year, Islamic State militant group has accepted responsibility for suicide bombing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa that resulted in deaths of more than 40 people.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Suicide bombings targeting two mosques in Pakistan right on the birthday of Prophet Mohammad killed at least 57 people and injured dozens. No group claimed responsibility for the terror attacks immediately.

Suicide bombings targeting two mosques in Pakistan right on the birthday of Prophet Mohammad killed at least 57 people and injured dozens. No group claimed responsibility for the terror attacks immediately. The first blast took place in a mosque in Mastung city in the country's southwestern province of Balochistan killing at least 52 people. The second attack took place in a mosque in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region killing five people. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attack resulted in collapse of the mosque and it is believed that 30 to 40 people are still trapped under the rubble. "The bomber detonated himself near a police vehicle near Madina Mosque, where people were gathering for a procession," said senior police official Munir Ahmed as he spoke about Balochistan blast. He was quoted by Reuters. The attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa involved two explosions. One took place at the mosque gate while the other inside the mosque compound. "Luckily one blast was at the gate so worshippers were able to exit the mosque; as a result the casualties are low," said the deputy commissioner of Hangu district, Fazal Akbar, as quoted by Reuters. Eyewitnesses at the site of the Balochistan bombing told the news agency that those dead included small children. Many people at the site were preparing to take part in the procession to mark Prophet Mohammad's birthday. A police official was among the dead. The mosque belonged to Barelvi sect of Islam which is considered more moderate than hardline sects such as Salafism. Some hardline sects consider veneration of the Prophet Mohammad as heresy. The attacks drew condemnation from Pakistani political leaders. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar, who is in Saudi Arabia for the religious Umrah pilgrimage, called for full support for blast victims. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) which has been responsible for some of the bloodiest attacks in Pakistan has denied that it carried out Friday's terror attacks. The group had also denied involvement in a Peshawar police mosque bombing that killed 100 people in January this year. However, a faction of the umbrella group later claimed the attack. In the month of July this year, Islamic State militant group has accepted responsibility for suicide bombing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa that resulted in deaths of more than 40 people. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Suicide bomb attacks in two Pakistan mosques kill at least 57, toll feared to rise

The General Presidency of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has unveiled a special "guidance robot" that uses artificial intelligence to aid pilgrims and Umrah performers inside the walls of the Grand Mosque, according to Gulf News.

AI-powered robot in Mecca's grand mosque

<p>At least seven people lost their lives after a mosque in the Nigerian city of Zaria collapsed during prayers on Friday (August 11), said the officials.</p>

<p>The incident left several others injured, the officials added.</p>

<p>Zaria Emirates Council spokesman Abdullahi Kwarbai said that the incident took place as hundreds of faithful observed afternoon prayers at the city's central mosque.</p>

<p>"Four bodies were found initially, and then three others were found after the rescue team searched the collapsed mosque," he said.</p>

<p>As per eyewitness Muhammed Tukur, a day before the incident took place, the authorities said that they would renovate the mosque.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-activists-protest-against-japans-plan-to-release-treated-fukushima-water-into-ocean-624851">South Korean activists protest against Japan's plan to release treated Fukushima water into ocean</a></p>

<p>“We were praying the Azar prayer (4 pm prayer). We had just finished the first and second prayers first seating, and that was when it happened. Some survived but others, Allah didn’t give them the opportunity. That was exactly what happened, the building collapsed on them. But in the end, we give Allah the praise because he protected us, because the mosque is divided into different segments and it is one of the segments that it happened. And when Allah arranges for something to happen, it will happen. Yesterday they were saying they will renovate and upgrade the mosque and then this happened. We believe it was their time to die in that place and God will accept their prayers,” Reuters news agency quoted eyewitness Muhammed Tukur as saying.</p>

<p>Emir of Zazzau, Ahmad Bamalli said, “I was meant to understand that about seven people have been taken to Zazzau hospital and while we are waiting for district heads and lieutenant to come back to us with reports of what they’ve seen in the hospitals. So many people came here to help rescue the victims.”</p>

<p>Such incidents of building collapse are frequent in Africa's most populous country, as the regulations here are poorly enforced and the material used for construction is often substandard.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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At least seven people lost their lives after a mosque in the Nigerian city of Zaria collapsed during prayers on Friday (August 11), said the officials. The incident left several others injured, the officials added.

At least seven people lost their lives after a mosque in the Nigerian city of Zaria collapsed during prayers on Friday (August 11), said the officials. The incident left several others injured, the officials added. Zaria Emirates Council spokesman Abdullahi Kwarbai said that the incident took place as hundreds of faithful observed afternoon prayers at the city's central mosque. "Four bodies were found initially, and then three others were found after the rescue team searched the collapsed mosque," he said. As per eyewitness Muhammed Tukur, a day before the incident took place, the authorities said that they would renovate the mosque. Also read: South Korean activists protest against Japan's plan to release treated Fukushima water into ocean “We were praying the Azar prayer (4 pm prayer). We had just finished the first and second prayers first seating, and that was when it happened. Some survived but others, Allah didn’t give them the opportunity. That was exactly what happened, the building collapsed on them. But in the end, we give Allah the praise because he protected us, because the mosque is divided into different segments and it is one of the segments that it happened. And when Allah arranges for something to happen, it will happen. Yesterday they were saying they will renovate and upgrade the mosque and then this happened. We believe it was their time to die in that place and God will accept their prayers,” Reuters news agency quoted eyewitness Muhammed Tukur as saying. Emir of Zazzau, Ahmad Bamalli said, “I was meant to understand that about seven people have been taken to Zazzau hospital and while we are waiting for district heads and lieutenant to come back to us with reports of what they’ve seen in the hospitals. So many people came here to help rescue the victims.” Such incidents of building collapse are frequent in Africa's most populous country, as the regulations here are poorly enforced and the material used for construction is often substandard. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mosque collapse in northern Nigeria claims lives of seven

Indian High Court has allowed the survey of the Gyanvapi Mosque complex in the city of Varanasi and rejected the Muslim side's plea challenging the survey. There is a legal battle going on over the mosque as it is claimed that it used to be a temple earlier.

India: Allahabad High Court gives nod to ASI for Gyanvapi Mosque's survey, top court to hear plea

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's decision to inaugurate 50 new model mosques and Islamic cultural centres across the country is raising eyebrows.

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina inaugurates model mosques across the country

<p>In the Gyanvapi mosque case which has been gripped in a legal battle for decades now, the Varanasi district court on Friday allowed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the barricaded area of the mosque complex, excluding its sealed area, the wuzukhana.</p>

<p>Wazukhana is a space inside a mosque where Muslim worshippers wash their hands before delivering namaaz. The contention revolves around claims of the existence of a 'Shivling', a structure considered holy to Hindus, in the wazukhana of the mosque..</p>

<p>Gyanvapi is situated next to the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple. A group of women had petitioned the local court for permission to worship daily before the idols on the mosque's exterior walls.</p>

<p>In May 2022, after a videographic survey of the Gyanvapi complex, the Hindu devotees claimed that there was a 'Shivling' inside the mosque premises. However, the Muslim side denied the claims. They said that it was not 'Shivling' but a&nbsp;fountain.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a></p>

<p>In its order, the Varanasi court said the entire&nbsp;mosque complex will be subjected to&nbsp;ASI's "scientific survey". However, it will exclude&nbsp;wuzukhana (place for ablution) where the 'Shivling' was found.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-women-paraded-naked-was-spontaneous-act-say-authorities-618069">Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities</a></p>

<p>An order to conduct an archaeological survey of the Gyanvapi complex was issued on April 8, 2021.&nbsp;Later, a local court in May 2022 ordered the Varanasi district administration to seal the location in the Gyanvapi Masjid complex where a Shivling was allegedly discovered during a three-day court-ordered videography survey.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the court say?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As per the court order, the ASI has been directed to produce a study report by August 4. In addition, District Judge A K Vishwesha ordered that the scientific survey by ASI should be done between 8 am in the morning to 12 in the noon.</p>

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<p>Despite the ASI survey order, the court made it clear that the survey will not hinder 'Namaz'. Furthermore, it added that no damage should be caused to the Gyanvapi mosque.</p>

<h2><strong>Hindu side welcomes ASI survey&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The court order was welcomed by the Hindu side. The counsel for the Hindu side, Vishnu Shankar Jain, termed the order by the court a "turning point" in the long-standing Kashi Vishwanath temple-Gyanvapi mosque dispute.</p>

<p>He reportedly said that the survey is needed in order to "uncover whether the current structure (Gyanvapi mosque) was built on barren land or was constructed over a pre-existing structure of a Hindu temple."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is also important to examine the age and nature of the construction of the western wall of the building and domes to check whether the top of temples existed beneath them. Besides, marks of Swastik, verses of shlokas evident on many walls and many other facts should also be examined," media reports said citing his comments before the court.</p>

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In the Gyanvapi mosque case which has been gripped in a legal battle for decades now, the Varanasi district court on Friday allowed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the barricaded area of the mosque complex, excluding its sealed area, the wuzukhana.

In the Gyanvapi mosque case which has been gripped in a legal battle for decades now, the Varanasi district court on Friday allowed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the barricaded area of the mosque complex, excluding its sealed area, the wuzukhana. Wazukhana is a space inside a mosque where Muslim worshippers wash their hands before delivering namaaz. The contention revolves around claims of the existence of a 'Shivling', a structure considered holy to Hindus, in the wazukhana of the mosque.. Gyanvapi is situated next to the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple. A group of women had petitioned the local court for permission to worship daily before the idols on the mosque's exterior walls. In May 2022, after a videographic survey of the Gyanvapi complex, the Hindu devotees claimed that there was a 'Shivling' inside the mosque premises. However, the Muslim side denied the claims. They said that it was not 'Shivling' but a fountain. Also Read | Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah In its order, the Varanasi court said the entire mosque complex will be subjected to ASI's "scientific survey". However, it will exclude wuzukhana (place for ablution) where the 'Shivling' was found. Also Read | Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities An order to conduct an archaeological survey of the Gyanvapi complex was issued on April 8, 2021. Later, a local court in May 2022 ordered the Varanasi district administration to seal the location in the Gyanvapi Masjid complex where a Shivling was allegedly discovered during a three-day court-ordered videography survey. What did the court say? As per the court order, the ASI has been directed to produce a study report by August 4. In addition, District Judge A K Vishwesha ordered that the scientific survey by ASI should be done between 8 am in the morning to 12 in the noon. Watch | Rainfall in India and Pakistan × Despite the ASI survey order, the court made it clear that the survey will not hinder 'Namaz'. Furthermore, it added that no damage should be caused to the Gyanvapi mosque. Hindu side welcomes ASI survey The court order was welcomed by the Hindu side. The counsel for the Hindu side, Vishnu Shankar Jain, termed the order by the court a "turning point" in the long-standing Kashi Vishwanath temple-Gyanvapi mosque dispute. He reportedly said that the survey is needed in order to "uncover whether the current structure (Gyanvapi mosque) was built on barren land or was constructed over a pre-existing structure of a Hindu temple." "It is also important to examine the age and nature of the construction of the western wall of the building and domes to check whether the top of temples existed beneath them. Besides, marks of Swastik, verses of shlokas evident on many walls and many other facts should also be examined," media reports said citing his comments before the court. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India: Varanasi court allows archaeological survey of entire Gyanvapi complex, excluding 'wuzukhana'

<p>Swedish police on Wednesday granted permission to burn the holy book Quran as part of a protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque, ahead of the Muslim’s three-day Eid Al-Adha holiday, AFP reported.</p>

<p>Some private individuals had requested the police to allow them to demonstrate even though their earlier requests were blocked.</p>

<p id="7">“I want to protest in front of the large mosque in Stockholm, and I want to express my opinion about the Koran… I will tear up the Koran and burn it," Salwan Momika, 37, wrote in the application, a copy of which was obtained by AFP.</p>

<p id="9">Police said they have called in reinforcements from across the country to maintain order.</p>

<p>The decision comes two weeks after a Swedish appeals court rejected the police ban on Quran burning protests after the burning of the Muslim holy book outside Turkiye’s embassy in January led to weeks of protests and calls for a boycott of Swedish goods and further stalled Sweden’s NATO membership bid.</p>

<h2><strong>Unrest in Sweden over Quran burning during Easter weekend</strong></h2>

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<p>The police had refused to authorise the Quran burnings in Stockholm saying that the protest had made Sweden "a higher priority target for attacks."</p>

<p>But this was challenged in the appeals court,&nbsp;which in&nbsp;mid-June ruled that the police were wrong to ban the protest, saying that “the order and security problems" referenced by the police did not have “a sufficiently clear connection to the planned event or its immediate vicinity."<br />
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If the protest takes place outside the main mosque on the Sodermalm island, it would be the first such&nbsp;act in the public since a Danish-Swedish far-right extremist caused an uproar in Turkey and other Islamic countries by burning a translated copy of the Quran near the Turkish embassy in Stockholm in January.</p>

<p>The January incident had been severely condemned by several Islamic countries, and the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan had ruled out supporting Sweden’s bid to enter the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation citing Stockholm's failure to crack down on Kurdish groups Turkey&nbsp;views as 'terrorists'.</p>

<p>The political leaders in Sweden have criticised the Quran burnings but defended the right to freedom of expression.</p>

<p>The move reflects the country’s growing tilt towards far-right groups and the emergence of neo-Nazi organisations in recent years, of which is the Sweden Democrats&nbsp;— which became the second-largest party in the Swedish parliament following elections last year.</p>

<p>It is also the&nbsp;largest party in the right-wing ruling bloc, although not recognized as a part of the government.</p>

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Swedish police on Wednesday granted permission to burn the holy book Quran as part of a protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque, ahead of the Muslim’s three-day Eid Al-Adha holiday, AFP reported.

Swedish police on Wednesday granted permission to burn the holy book Quran as part of a protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque, ahead of the Muslim’s three-day Eid Al-Adha holiday, AFP reported. Some private individuals had requested the police to allow them to demonstrate even though their earlier requests were blocked. “I want to protest in front of the large mosque in Stockholm, and I want to express my opinion about the Koran… I will tear up the Koran and burn it," Salwan Momika, 37, wrote in the application, a copy of which was obtained by AFP. Police said they have called in reinforcements from across the country to maintain order. The decision comes two weeks after a Swedish appeals court rejected the police ban on Quran burning protests after the burning of the Muslim holy book outside Turkiye’s embassy in January led to weeks of protests and calls for a boycott of Swedish goods and further stalled Sweden’s NATO membership bid. Unrest in Sweden over Quran burning during Easter weekend The police had refused to authorise the Quran burnings in Stockholm saying that the protest had made Sweden "a higher priority target for attacks." But this was challenged in the appeals court, which in mid-June ruled that the police were wrong to ban the protest, saying that “the order and security problems" referenced by the police did not have “a sufficiently clear connection to the planned event or its immediate vicinity." If the protest takes place outside the main mosque on the Sodermalm island, it would be the first such act in the public since a Danish-Swedish far-right extremist caused an uproar in Turkey and other Islamic countries by burning a translated copy of the Quran near the Turkish embassy in Stockholm in January. The January incident had been severely condemned by several Islamic countries, and the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan had ruled out supporting Sweden’s bid to enter the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation citing Stockholm's failure to crack down on Kurdish groups Turkey views as 'terrorists'. The political leaders in Sweden have criticised the Quran burnings but defended the right to freedom of expression. The move reflects the country’s growing tilt towards far-right groups and the emergence of neo-Nazi organisations in recent years, of which is the Sweden Democrats — which became the second-largest party in the Swedish parliament following elections last year. It is also the largest party in the right-wing ruling bloc, although not recognized as a part of the government. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque

<p>Egypt has reopened a 13th-century mosque after long period of restoration. The mosque had fallen into disrepair. It went through, over the years, used as a soap factory, a slaughterhouse and even a fort. The mosque is situated in capital Cairo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mosque of Al-Zhahir Baybars was built under Mamluk rule in 1268. It spans an area of three acres just north of Cairo. This makes it Egypt's third-largest mosque.</p>

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<p>The mosque underwent mechanical and chemical restoration to bring it back to its original condition, said Tarek Mohamed El-Behairy, who supervised the restoration.</p>

<p>"Some parts were destroyed, some parts have been dismantled because they were structurally unsuitable to remain in the mosque," he said. He was quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>"But we were very keen, even in the reconstruction process, to work according to the correct archaeological style."</p>

<h2><strong>Co-funded by Kazakhstan</strong></h2>

<p>The restoration cost USD 7.68 million. It was co-funded by Kazakhstan. The agreement for the restoration work was struck in 2007.</p>

<p>The mosque was either closed or was used for non-religious purposes. This led to its disrepair.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During Napoleon's campaign in Egypt it was used as a military fort, then under Ottoman rule in the 19th century as a soap factory. Later, when the British invaded Egypt in 1882, it was used as a slaughterhouse.</p>

<p>Al-Zahir Baybars was a prominent figure in Egypt's history credited with cementing Mamluk rule in Egypt which spanned three centuries up to 1517.</p>

<p>A ceremony was held in Kazakhstan to mark the opening of the mosque and to celebrate the country's role in restoration. The Astana Times reported that&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kazakhstan’s Senate Chairperson Maulen Ashimbayev, Minister of Culture and Sports Askhat Oralov were present for the ceremony among others.</p>

<p>“Relations between the Kazakh and Egyptian peoples have deep historical roots dating back to the time of the Mamluks. Sultan Beibars paid special attention to constructing mosques and madrasahs and developing science and education,” said Ashimbayev. He was quoted by The Astana Times news outlet.</p>

<p>“Today is a very important day for Kazakhstan and Egypt. We not only rediscover one of Cairo’s landmarks, but also strengthen the cultural and spiritual bond between the two nations. Sultan Beibars is an important figure in the history of our countries, that is why I would like to thank the Egyptian side for cooperation in preserving the cultural heritage important for all of us,” said Oralov. He was quoted by The Astana Times.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Egypt has reopened a 13th-century mosque after long period of restoration. The mosque had fallen into disrepair. It went through, over the years, used as a soap factory, a slaughterhouse and even a fort.

Egypt has reopened a 13th-century mosque after long period of restoration. The mosque had fallen into disrepair. It went through, over the years, used as a soap factory, a slaughterhouse and even a fort. The mosque is situated in capital Cairo. The mosque of Al-Zhahir Baybars was built under Mamluk rule in 1268. It spans an area of three acres just north of Cairo. This makes it Egypt's third-largest mosque. The mosque underwent mechanical and chemical restoration to bring it back to its original condition, said Tarek Mohamed El-Behairy, who supervised the restoration. "Some parts were destroyed, some parts have been dismantled because they were structurally unsuitable to remain in the mosque," he said. He was quoted by Reuters. "But we were very keen, even in the reconstruction process, to work according to the correct archaeological style." Co-funded by Kazakhstan The restoration cost USD 7.68 million. It was co-funded by Kazakhstan. The agreement for the restoration work was struck in 2007. The mosque was either closed or was used for non-religious purposes. This led to its disrepair. During Napoleon's campaign in Egypt it was used as a military fort, then under Ottoman rule in the 19th century as a soap factory. Later, when the British invaded Egypt in 1882, it was used as a slaughterhouse. Al-Zahir Baybars was a prominent figure in Egypt's history credited with cementing Mamluk rule in Egypt which spanned three centuries up to 1517. A ceremony was held in Kazakhstan to mark the opening of the mosque and to celebrate the country's role in restoration. The Astana Times reported that Kazakhstan’s Senate Chairperson Maulen Ashimbayev, Minister of Culture and Sports Askhat Oralov were present for the ceremony among others. “Relations between the Kazakh and Egyptian peoples have deep historical roots dating back to the time of the Mamluks. Sultan Beibars paid special attention to constructing mosques and madrasahs and developing science and education,” said Ashimbayev. He was quoted by The Astana Times news outlet. “Today is a very important day for Kazakhstan and Egypt. We not only rediscover one of Cairo’s landmarks, but also strengthen the cultural and spiritual bond between the two nations. Sultan Beibars is an important figure in the history of our countries, that is why I would like to thank the Egyptian side for cooperation in preserving the cultural heritage important for all of us,” said Oralov. He was quoted by The Astana Times. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Egypt reopens historic 13th century mosque post years of restoration

In Pics | Egypt historic mosque reopens after years of restoration

Jakarta's grand Istiqlal Mosque is busy with worshippers this Ramadan. And this year, the mMsque is boosting its green credentials after a major renovation in 2019 where the mosque installed more than 500 solar panels on the its expansive roof.

Jakarta Mosque leads the way on renewable energy

The Britain's largest mosque which was partially destroyed during a huge fire back in 2015 will now reopen on Saturday. The mosque that is managed by members of the Ahmadiya sect was burnt down by certain alleged miscreants.

UK mosque repaired with stones imported for Portugal

Pakistan Peshawar blast: Tragic images narrate the extent of devastation

Security around Pakistan’s northwestern city of Peshawar was noticeably tighter on Tuesday (January 31) morning, as the death toll from Monday’s bombing of a mosque rose to 90.

Pakistan: Peshawar tightens security as death toll from mosque bombing rises

An explosion in a mosque killed at 28 people and wounded 150 in Pakistan's northwestern city of Peshawar on Monday (January 30), a Pakistan provincial governor said.

Pakistan: At least 28 dead, more than 150 wounded in blast inside Peshawar mosque

The giant dome of the Jakarta Islamic Centre Grand Mosque in Indonesia collapsed after a major fire broke out during its renovation on Wednesday. No one was injured in the fire or the ensuing collapse.

Giant dome collapses as fire engulfs mosque in Indonesia

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