The Allahabad High Court has reaffirmed that Article 25 of the Constitution protects the right of all religious groups to gather for worship, clearly stating that this protection does not extend to acts that incite one faith against another.
The ruling came during a petition filed by Munazir Khan, who alleged that authorities in Uttar Pradesh were preventing worshippers from offering Namaz at a site he claimed had been used as a mosque. The court held that there should be no obstruction to prayers at the location, noting that the place had been used for Namaz in the past, even though it does not currently hold the status of a mosque.
The bench also rejected the state’s claim that a restriction on the number of worshippers had been misrepresented. It observed that no objection was raised when the earlier order was issued in open court. The court stressed that maintaining law and order remains the responsibility of the administration.
The court said individuals do not require permission to conduct religious prayers within private premises. It directed the state to ensure protection for worshippers if objections arise from any group or individual.
It also clarified that Article 25 remains neutral across religions. However, it prohibits speech or actions that disturb public order by creating conflict between communities.
The court directed authorities to circulate the order among law enforcement officials across the state.