Lucknow: Several students of Lucknow University staged a protest outside Lal Baradari on Sunday against the sealing of the mosque inside the premises during the holy month of Ramzan.The action by the works department sparked concern among students and teachers who regularly offer prayers at the mosque, with many questioning the timing and necessity of the move.Associate professor in the Arabic department of Lucknow University, Arafat Zafar, said, “Sealing the Lal Baradari Mosque was especially difficult as it came during Ramadan, a time when the mosque sees many devotees and holds special religious significance.”LU student Taukeel Gazi said that sealing the mosque during Ramzan deeply affected those who use it for prayers. He pointed out that taking such a step without prior notice created disappointment and unrest among the university community.Another student, Shubham Kharwar, stressed that the administration should have consulted students before implementing the decision. He said proper communication could have prevented the situation from escalating into a protest and addressed concerns effectively.Works department superintendent Shyamlesh Tiwari said, “The barricading and sealing of Lal Baradari Mosque were carried out following official instructions issued by the registrar. The barricading was done as the structure of mosque is weak and could collapse at any time. All actions were in accordance with the directions given to us.” In March 2024, the over 200-year-old Lal Baradari, located at the centre of the Lucknow University campus, was approved for restoration, with Rs 5 crore allocated for the project.
