Taj Mahal moonlight viewing extended

The Supreme Court on Monday further extended the moonlit viewing of Taj Mahal, the 17th century monument of love. "We extend the moonlight viewing of Taj Mahal till further order," a Bench comprising Justice Ruma Pal, Justice S B Sinha and Justice S H Kapadia said.

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A yearlong extension of the night viewing of the white marble structure, housing the tombs of Mughal emperor Shah Jehan and his love Mumtaj Mahal, was to expire on November 25.

Initially, the apex court had granted permission for three months only but after it was informed that no untoward incident had taken place, it was extended for a year. The Court had asked the authorities not to relax security measures and procedures followed till date.

Advocate Krishan Mahajan, who is amicus curaie in the matter and Archaeological Survey of India counsel A D N Rao, informed the court that procedures were strictly followed during night viewing of the Taj Mahal.

After 22 years, the Supreme Court has thrown open the monument to visitors for moonlit nights, which they say, is a feast for eyes.

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