In a significant ruling that upholds the integrity of India’s historical monuments, the Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a petition claiming private ownership of the iconic Red Fort in Delhi. The apex court reiterated that the Red Fort is a national monument protected and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and belongs to the people of India.
Petition by Mughal Descendant Dismissed
The case was filed by Prince Yakub Habeebuddin Tucy, who claims to be a descendant of the last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar. Tucy argued that the Red Fort was the ancestral property of the Mughal family and sought its possession or compensation. However, a bench headed by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud dismissed the plea, calling it “devoid of merit” and “historically untenable.”
“This monument is not the property of any individual or royal descendant but belongs to the nation. Its preservation is a matter of national pride and cultural importance,” said the Chief Justice during the proceedings.
Historical Context
The Red Fort, built in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. After the British colonial administration took control in 1857 following the First War of Independence, the fort was repurposed and eventually came under the stewardship of the Indian government post-independence. It has since been managed by the ASI and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Legal experts say the court’s decision reaffirms that historical monuments cannot be subjected to claims of private inheritance, especially when they have been integrated into the country’s national identity and are maintained through public funds.
Public and Political Reactions
The verdict has been widely welcomed by historians, archaeologists, and political leaders. Union Minister for Culture G. Kishan Reddy stated, “The Supreme Court has rightly protected the sanctity of our national monuments. The Red Fort is not just a building—it’s the living history of India’s freedom struggle and rich cultural heritage.”
Opposition parties also backed the ruling. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said, “The Red Fort is where our Prime Minister hoists the national flag every Independence Day. No one can claim exclusive rights over it.”
Heritage and Tourism Implications
The Red Fort attracts over 3 million visitors annually and is central to India’s tourism and cultural narrative. The ASI has invested significantly in its conservation, including recent digital installations and restoration projects costing over ₹100 crore. Tourism experts note that reaffirming the monument’s national ownership ensures its accessibility and preservation for future generations.
“This ruling is a reminder that our heritage cannot be reduced to private property,” said Dr. Meera Iyer, a heritage activist. “It is essential for the collective memory of a nation.”
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision not only sets a legal precedent against hereditary claims over historical sites but also reinforces the idea that India’s cultural heritage is a shared legacy. The Red Fort will continue to stand, not as a symbol of private lineage, but as a monument of India’s enduring spirit and unity.
