Offering namaz on public land not a right, rules Allahabad High Court

05-May-2026

.

The Allahabad High Court ruled that public land cannot be used for regular religious gatherings like namaz, emphasizing that religious freedom is limited by public order and others' rights. The court dismissed a plea by Aseen, who claimed private ownership of land in Uttar Pradesh to hold prayers, as he failed to prove legal ownership. 

The state argued the land is public and customary Eid prayers are permitted, but regular large gatherings threaten social harmony. The court highlighted the distinction between private prayer and organized public worship.