Access to the 136-year-old Gauripur Jama Masjid (known as Bankra Mosque) at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport has been suspended after the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) stopped worshippers from entering the mosque, leading to the suspension of daily prayers.
Airport authorities initially informed mosque representatives that heavy rainfall had damaged the approach route and required three days of repair work. After the stated period ended, entry did not resume. The CISF reportedly stated that it had received no further instructions to restore access.
For years, worshippers entered the mosque under a regulated arrangement. Groups of 20 people travelled from Gate No. 8 under CISF escort after completing security checks and identity verification.
Authorities later cited security concerns raised by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security over civilian movement near active airport taxiways.
The mosque committee said airport authorities had held discussions for a long time about relocating the mosque and had assured them of alternative land. Gen.-Sec. Mohammad Zamiruddin said the committee received no prior notice before access was suspended.
Senior TMC leader Saugata Roy condemned the move, calling it an attack on people’s faith. He said any relocation should take place only after reaching a consensus with the local community. He said the mosque had remained alongside airport operations for decades.