In a special Saturday hearing, the Allahabad High Court allowed only ritual activities at the famous Syed Salar Masood Ghazi Dargah in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh. However, it did not interfere with the state government’s decision to deny full permission for organizing the traditional 'Jeth Mela' this year.
The bench, led by Justice Attau Rahman Masoodi and Justice Subhash Vidyarthi, passed this interim order after hearing multiple petitions. The court emphasized that religious practices at the Dargah will continue as usual and directed the state government to support law and order, civic amenities, and coordination with the Dargah management.
"Routine activities at Dargah Sharif for carrying out the ritualistic practices shall remain open,"
— Allahabad High Court, May 17, 2025
The court noted that while ritualistic worship and moderate visits by devotees will be allowed, the request to hold the larger cultural and commercial fair (Jeth Mela) could not be accepted at this stage.
Advocate Lalta Prasad Misra, arguing for the Dargah Committee, told the court that the Mela has historical and religious importance and has been officially recognized by the state since 1987. It is a vital event for both Hindu and Muslim devotees, drawing lakhs of pilgrims annually. The petitioners contended that citing law and order as a reason to stop the fair was unjustified since maintaining public order is the administration’s duty.
They also pointed out that the Devi Patan Mela in Balrampur was recently held smoothly, with state support and even participation from the Chief Minister. Further, it was clarified that the Dargah Committee had only asked the district administration to hold a meeting for organizing the event, not directly for formal permission.
On the other hand, the state government argued that the Dargah Committee had indeed submitted a request for Mela arrangements. Based on this, reports from officials, including the Local Intelligence Unit, warned of serious law and order challenges. As a result, the state decided not to allow the fair.
"It is not possible to ensure safety and provide civic support for a month-long Mela. Religious activities inside the Dargah are not restricted,"
— State Government’s Response in Court
The court, while reserving its final judgment, instructed the Dargah Committee to limit visitor numbers to avoid any stampede or disruption. It underlined the need for cooperation between the government and the shrine’s management.
"Devotees should visit in moderate numbers to avoid any unwarranted situation or safety issues,"
— Allahabad High Court Interim Order
Several prominent advocates appeared in the matter, including Syed Husain, Alok Kumar Misra, Akram Azad, Sayyed Farooq Ahmad, Syed Mehfuzur Rehman, and Vinod Kumar Yadav for the petitioners, while Advocate Habib represented the state.
