Ajmer, Jan 6:The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition challenging the Prime Minister’s tradition of offering a chaddar (ceremonial cloth) at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, clarifying that the matter is not justiciable. The court noted that since this year’s chaddar has already been offered, the issue has become irrelevant.
The practice, started by India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, has been followed by all successive Prime Ministers. Religious and community leaders welcomed the decision, describing the act as a symbol of faith, social harmony, and national unity.
Maulana Dr. Kalbe Rushed Rizvi of the National Ulema Parliament said the chaddar promotes brotherhood, tolerance, and India’s Ganga-Jamuni heritage. Ghaffar Hussain Faridi, a Khadim of the dargah, praised the Supreme Court for upholding the centuries-old tradition, noting that offerings have been made with faith by rulers, leaders, and citizens alike.
Ajmer Sharif, the 13th-century mausoleum of Sufi saint Muhammad Moinuddin Chishti (Garib Nawaz), attracts millions of visitors annually. The saint, known for his compassion toward the poor, taught love, peace, and unity, and his teachings continue to inspire devotees across religions. The dargah hosts the annual Urs festival, drawing devotees from India and abroad.