Section 163 Kolkata Airport
Cloud TV Desk: Authorities imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) around Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata on Friday, enforcing strict security measures ahead of a proposed prayer gathering at the historic Bankra (Gouripur Jame) Mosque located within the airport premises.
The order prohibits the assembly of five or more people around Gate No. 7 and adjoining areas. Large contingents of Kolkata Police, Rapid Action Force (RAF), and central security personnel were deployed to maintain law and order.
The 136-year-old Bankra Mosque is situated close to the airport’s secondary runway. Airport authorities have long argued that the structure needs to be relocated to facilitate runway expansion and ensure aviation safety.
In recent months, access passes allowing worshippers to enter the airport premises for prayers were discontinued, effectively suspending regular congregational prayers at the mosque.
Against this backdrop, Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind West Bengal President Siddiqullah Chowdhury had called upon people to offer Friday prayers at the mosque, prompting the administration to tighten security and impose prohibitory orders.
Siddiqullah Chowdhury reached the airport area on Friday morning and held discussions with senior police officials.
Following the meeting, he announced that the proposed programme would be suspended for the day. However, he did not elaborate on the reasons behind the decision.
Officials said the move helped avoid any disruption to airport operations and ensured that passenger movement remained unaffected.
Security was significantly enhanced in the airport vicinity, including Gate No. 7, Bankra, and nearby localities.
Police conducted route marches, installed barricades, and maintained strict surveillance to prevent any unauthorized gathering. Water cannons and additional reserve forces were also kept on standby as a precautionary measure.
Authorities confirmed that flight operations continued normally throughout the day without any impact on airport services.
The issue of relocating the Bankra Mosque has remained contentious for several years.
Airport authorities maintain that the mosque’s location near the runway poses operational and safety challenges, making its relocation necessary for future airport expansion.
Meanwhile, local residents and religious organisations have opposed the proposal, arguing that the mosque holds historical and religious significance. They have urged the government and airport authorities to resolve the matter through dialogue and mutual consensus.
The situation remained peaceful on Friday, but security agencies continue to monitor developments closely.
© Copyright 2026, cloudTV. All Rights Reserved
