The Maharashtra government has informed the Bombay High Court that it cannot allow taxi, auto‑rickshaw, and app-based cab drivers to offer namaz within the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) premises, even during Ramadan, due to security concerns. The government highlighted that the airport is a high-security zone with frequent VVIP movements, and a temporary prayer shed could pose safety risks.
The case arose after a prayer shed near the airport, which had been used by drivers and devotees for decades, was demolished in April 2025. The drivers’ union filed a petition stating that thousands of people had been left without a place to offer namaz, and their fundamental rights should be protected.
A division bench of Justices B.P. Colabawalla and Firdosh Pooniwalla acknowledged the security issues but asked the state and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to identify an alternative nearby site where drivers and passengers could offer prayers during Ramadan. The court suggested that any temporary structure could be removed after the holy month.
The next hearing is scheduled for March 5, when authorities are expected to present proposals for a suitable alternative location.
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