Bombay High Court Denies Airport Prayer

The India — Bombay High Court, with Justices B. P. Colabawalla and Firdosh Pooniwalla presiding, refused relief to the Taxi-Rickshaw Ola-Uber Men s Union, who sought permission to offer namaz near Shivaji during Ramzan. The union's petition claimed a temporary shed they used for prayers was demolished and requested an alternative site. The court emphasized that security concerns at the airport override religious rights, stating that while Ramzan is integral to Islam, adherents cannot claim a right to pray anywhere. A survey of seven alternative sites found none suitable due to congestion, security risks, and airport development plans. The court suggested the union could submit a representation for a prayer space during future redevelopment of Terminal 1 at Shivaji.