The main mosque in the Indian capital New Delhi, which briefly reopened to worshippers, will again close over fears that the coronavirus could spread, its management said.

The 17th century Jama Masjid had reopened on Monday after the government relaxed its ban on religious gatherings. But authorities have warned that infections could surge in coming weeks, and mosque managers want to play it safe.

Head cleric Syed Ahmed Bukhari said public prayers will be halted from Friday through June 30, given the “deteriorating” coronavirus situation in New Delhi.

The voluntary closure comes two days after the mosque's media manager died due to Covid-19.