IICF To Build 'Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah' Mosque In Ayodhya

In a significant development, the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) has announced the commencement of the construction of a grand mosque in Ayodhya, starting this May. The mosque, named “Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah” after Prophet Muhammad, aims to foster unity and goodwill among people, transcending religious differences. The initiative comes on the same day as Prime Minister Narendra Modi presides over the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple.

Construction Timeline

The senior official of the IICF, Haji Arfat Shaikh, revealed that the construction is expected to span three to four years. The ambitious project is set to redefine the cityscape of Ayodhya and serve as a symbol of communal harmony.

Crowdfunding for the Mosque

To finance the construction, the IICF is considering the establishment of a crowdfunding website. This approach reflects a broader outreach strategy, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds to contribute to the creation of a shared cultural space.

A Message of Unity

Shaikh emphasized the foundation’s commitment to eradicating enmity and promoting love among people. Regardless of individual beliefs regarding the Supreme Court judgment on the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992, the IICF aims to unite communities through the construction of “Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah.”

Supreme Court Verdict

The Supreme Court of India, in 2019, declared the demolition of the Babri Masjid as unlawful. While acknowledging the presence of a non-Islamic structure beneath the mosque, the court ruled for the construction of a temple on the disputed land and allocated a separate parcel of land for the Muslim community to build a mosque.

Funding Approach and Delays

Contrary to common fundraising practices, Zufar Ahmad Faruqi, the president of the IICF, stated that the foundation has not actively approached anyone for funds. He emphasized that there was no public movement for fundraising. Athar Hussain, the secretary of the IICF, attributed the delay in mosque construction to the incorporation of additional traditional elements into the design.

Holistic Development

Beyond the mosque, the IICF plans to construct a 500-bed hospital within the complex. This holistic approach underscores the foundation’s commitment to contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

Presence of Dignitaries

The announcement coincides with the visit of numerous celebrities, including actors and cricketers, to Ayodhya for the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple. This convergence of events highlights the significance of Ayodhya as a cultural and spiritual hub.