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In a historic move towards reconciliation and communal harmony, the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) has announced its plans to commence the construction of a mosque in Ayodhya, India. This significant development comes as Hindu devotees prepare to inaugurate a grand
temple dedicated to Lord Ram, marking the end of a decades-long dispute. The IICF, responsible for overseeing the mosque project, aims to begin construction in May, following the holy month of Ramadan. With a projected completion timeline of three to four years, the mosque will serve as a beacon of hope and unity for both the Muslim community and the nation as a whole.
Background: The Ayodhya Land Dispute
The Ayodhya land dispute has been a contentious issue in India for several decades. It originated with the destruction of the 16th-century Babri Masjid by Hindu zealots in 1992, claiming that it was built over an ancient temple marking the birthplace of Lord Ram. This act of destruction led to nationwide riots, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives, predominantly Muslims. The dispute deeply scarred relations between Hindu and Muslim communities, creating a rift that needed healing.
In 2019, India's Supreme Court declared the razing of the mosque unlawful but ruled that there was evidence of a non-Islamic structure beneath it. As a resolution, the court ordered the land to be given to Hindu groups for the construction of a temple, while also directing that an alternate plot of land be provided to the Muslim community for the construction of a mosque in Ayodhya.
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The Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation's Vision
The Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) has been entrusted with the responsibility of constructing the mosque in Ayodhya. The foundation aims to create a symbol of harmony and unity through this project. The mosque, named "Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah" after Prophet Mohammad, seeks to move away from the contentious name of "Babri Masjid" associated with the disputed structure. The IICF intends to imbue the mosque with traditional elements, including minarets, to reflect the rich cultural heritage of Islam.
Construction Timeline and Funding
According to Haji Arfat Shaikh, the head of the development committee of the IICF, construction of the Ayodhya mosque is set to commence in May, following the holy month of Ramadan. The timeline for completion is estimated to be three to four years, emphasizing the dedication and attention to detail that will be invested in this significant project.
To finance the construction, the IICF plans to launch a crowdfunding campaign, inviting contributions from individuals who believe in the spirit of unity and communal harmony. This approach aligns with the IICF's vision of involving the wider community, irrespective of religious affiliations, in the realization of this historic mosque.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Unity
While the construction of the Ram Mandir, the grand temple dedicated to Lord Ram, has progressed swiftly with significant funds collected over the years, the mosque project has faced its own set of challenges. Muslim groups struggled to raise funds and initiate work at the designated site, located approximately 25 kilometers away from the temple. However, with the revised plans incorporating traditional architectural elements such as minarets and the inclusion of a 500-bed hospital within the complex, the mosque project has gained momentum.
Zufar Ahmad Faruqi, the president of the IICF, acknowledges the delay in approaching the public for funds, but highlights the foundation's commitment to fostering love and understanding between communities. The IICF aims to transform enmity and hatred into compassion and acceptance, transcending the divisive debates surrounding the Supreme Court's judgment.
Promoting Communal Harmony through Education
Shaikh emphasizes the importance of imparting good values to future generations as a means to foster lasting peace and harmony. By teaching children and people alike the principles of inclusivity and respect, the IICF hopes to create a society that celebrates diversity and embraces unity. This approach aligns with the larger goal of promoting communal harmony and bridging the gaps between different religious communities in India.
Conclusion
The construction of the Ayodhya mosque signifies a new chapter in India's history, one that seeks to heal wounds and build bridges between communities. The IICF's vision of creating a mosque that stands as a symbol of harmony and unity is commendable. As construction commences and the mosque takes shape, it is a reminder of the power of empathy, understanding, and the pursuit of a shared future. The Ayodhya mosque will serve as a testament to the strength of India's diverse fabric and a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and tolerant society.