Gyanvapi: ASI to start survey from Monday, Administration Alert, Called Concern Parties

The ASI team is scheduled to commence survey of Gyanvapi campus of Varanasi from Monday 24 July. Just Before it, on Sunday late Evening, the Varanasi police and district administration has engaged in discussions with concern parties involved in the ongoing court case. In the meantime, it has been reported that the Masjid Committee intends to appeal the order of the Varanasi District Court in a higher court. the District Magistrate Yashraj Lingam has  also confirmed that the ASI survey of Gyanvapi campus will start on Monday morning.

The Varanasi District Court has granted permission on Hindu worshippers plea for a survey of the entire Gyanvapi mosque premises (excluding the Wuzukhana) by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The application, filed by the Hindu devotees, sought this survey of the mosque located near Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. The Court Directed ASI (Archeological Survey of India to Conduct the Survey of Entire Primises and filed final report by 4th of August.

Significance of Survey

As per order of the Varanasi District Court will commence at 7am on Monday 24, July 2023.The survey is likely to to assess the historical and archaeological significance of the mosque and its surroundings. The court’s aimed at understanding the site’s historical context and its implications for the ongoing legal dispute.

Background

The Gyanvapi Mosque, located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is a historically and religiously important site for both Hindus and Muslims. According to historical accounts, the mosque was built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb on the site of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s original structure was partially destroyed during the construction of the mosque.

Legal Dispute

For decades, the site has been a subject of dispute between Hindu and Muslim communities over its ownership and control. Hindu groups have claimed that the Gyanvapi Mosque was constructed after demolishing the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and they have been seeking the restoration of the temple at the site. On the other hand, Muslim groups have contested these claims and argued for the mosque’s preservation.

Responsbilities of ASI

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is a governmental organization responsible for exploring, excavating, and conserving India’s historical monuments and sites. In the context of this dispute, the ASI has been called upon to conduct a comprehensive survey of the Gyanvapi Mosque premises to assess its archaeological significance and gather historical evidence related to its construction.

Wuzukhana

The court has excluded wuzukhana from the ASI survey because during the investigation of the court commission, a Shivling like black stone figure was found in Wujukhana. Which the Hindu side has called Adideshwar Shiva Linga. There is also a deity of Nandi outside the premises in Direct line with this Shivling. The Muslim side calls this figure a fountain. This dispute had reached the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court has sealed the Wuzukhana till the dispute is resolved and there is a restriction on the movement of any person. After the order of Supreme Court, the responsibility of security of Wuzukhana has been given to Police and District Administration.

Implications

The court’s decision has garnered attention from both Hindu and Muslim communities, as it could have far-reaching implications for the ongoing legal battle over the site’s ownership and control. The ASI survey findings may serve as crucial evidence in the court proceedings, shedding light on the historical background of the site and its religious significance.

Not Final Determination of Ownership

It is important to note that the court’s decision to allow the ASI survey does not imply any final determination of the ownership or control of the Gyanvapi Mosque. The survey is aimed at providing an objective and scientific assessment of the site’s historical aspects, which can be used as evidence during the legal proceedings.

Close Watch

Overall, the Varanasi District Court’s decision to permit the ASI survey marks a significant step in the resolution of this complex and emotive dispute, and it will be closely watched by both communities and legal experts alike to see how it impacts the ongoing case and future developments concerning the Gyanvapi Mosque.

Last Date fo filing Report

The order issued by the Varanasi district court on Saturday stated that the ASI is required to conduct a survey of the Gyanvapi campus, utilizing technical and scientific methodologies, and submit a report by August 4th.