SC to decide Hubli Idgah case on November 4

A bench headed by Justice Dalveer Bhandari said it would hear the arguments from both parties and take a final decision.

In its report, Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation commissioner P S Vastrad said despite three meetings held at his behest, a settlement could not be arrived.

“Both parties agreed that the Idgah Maidan can be used for prayers for two days in a year. Yet there is difference in opinion between the parties regarding the maintenance and possession of the land,’’ said the report.

Both parties struck to their stand as per their written requisition. The Karnataka Board of Waqfs and the Anjuman-E-Islam Hubli suggested that the land be left for their possession and maintenance. They said they were prepared to construct the boundary wall surrounding the land. But, G A Salimath, the representative of the other party, disputed this argument, said the report.

However, the Commissioner said the land was not suitable for the construction of a school as it is situated in the confluence of a traffic intersection. “Since the land is surrounded by roads and having a big circle, the possibility of constructing a school therein will have much disturbance of traffic and will not be fully safe for children,’’ said the affidavit.

On July 6, this year, SC had asked Karnataka, Hubli-Dharward Municipal Corporation and leaders of Hindu and Muslim communities to resolve the issue amicably.