The Bankra mosque, also referred to as the Gauripur Jama Masjid, has become a subject of discussion due to its striking location near Dum Dum airport, which has undergone significant changes since its establishment in 1924. The mosque predates the airport, believed to have been built in the 1890s, when the area comprised a village. With the arrival of the British in 1924 and the subsequent establishment of Dum Dum aerodrome, the mosque remained in its original place while the surrounding area transformed dramatically.

Despite the expansion of the airport over the decades, the mosque has remained intact, with authorities having previously raised concerns regarding its proximity to the runway. Though various chief ministers have served since, none have successfully facilitated the mosque’s relocation, which has now resurfaced as a pressing issue under the current government.

Security Concerns Surrounding Mosque Access

The mosque’s position, only 165 metres from the secondary runway, raises issues under established aviation regulations, which mandate a minimum distance of 240 metres from such structures. The presence of an adjacent pond further complicates aircraft movement, limiting the operational capacity of the runway and necessitating adjustments to accommodate varying aircraft sizes. This has been a source of operational challenges, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

While temporary measures were implemented to adjust the runway’s alignment, the inability to install necessary landing equipment on the secondary runway has increased the workload on the main runway, which is one of the busiest in the country. Handling upwards of 60,000 passengers daily, the airport experiences a spike during significant local festivals, such as Durga Puja.

The Ongoing Debate Over Relocation

Over the years, discussions about relocating the mosque have sparked debates between local authorities and the mosque’s representatives. North Dum Dum MLA Sourav Sikdar highlighted that calls for relocation have been ongoing since at least 1998, with various civil aviation ministers and chief ministers addressing the matter without resolution. Despite different approaches, including a focus on runway diversion rather than mosque removal, the authorities have yet to agree on a solution.

The recent change in political leadership has renewed discussions about the mosque’s relocation. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari underscored the importance of national security due to the airport’s proximity to international borders, indicating that unrestricted access to such sensitive areas cannot be permitted. He clarified that the move is not intended to disrespect any religious sentiments, stating the government’s commitment to balancing development with security needs.

Political sentiments surrounding the mosque’s future have surfaced, with Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar accusing previous administrations of political appeasement regarding the issue. In contrast, leaders from the minority community, including former Trinamool minister Siddiqullah Chowdhury, have opposed any forced relocation, asserting the mosque’s historical significance and its right to remain in its original location amidst modern development pressures.

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