SC allows opening Taj Mahal for night viewing

Thanks to a Supreme Court decision easing a two-decade ban on night viewing, an official said yesterday.

The Taj Mahal will be open during each full moon and two nights before and after, as soon as security arrangements are in place, said state Tourism Minister Kokab Hamid.

Night viewing was banned in 1984 due to fears of an attack on the monument by militant Sikhs, who were then fighting the government for the independence of Punjab.

"It is after 20 years that such permission has been granted," Hamid said. "Sure, we are delighted."

He said that the court has ordered X-ray machines and metal detectors placed at the entrance before moonlight viewing begins at the Taj Mahal, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1632 and 1654.

Though night viewing rules are being relaxed, there will be restrictions.