The Allahabad High Court is set to hear a crucial petition regarding the Gyanvapi mosque on December 10th. The case, filed by plaintiff Rakhi Singh, seeks an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the Wazukhana area within the mosque premises.
The Wazukhana, also known as the ablution chamber, has been at the center of a heated dispute. In 2022, the Hindu side claimed that a shivling was discovered within its confines. However, the Muslim side maintains that it is merely a water fountain.
The Supreme Court had sealed the Wazukhana after the initial controversy erupted. Subsequently, in January of this year, the Hindu side approached the Supreme Court, requesting the de-sealing of the area and permission for an ASI survey without causing any damage to the alleged shivling.
This petition has fueled further tensions surrounding the Gyanvapi mosque. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has expressed deep concern over similar claims regarding mosques and dargahs across the country.
"It is deeply unfortunate and shameful that, after the claims on Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi, Shahi Eidgah in Mathura, Bhojshala Mosque in Madhya Pradesh, Teele Wali Masjid in Lucknow, and Sambhal's Jama Masjid, a claim has now been made on the historic Ajmer Dargah," stated SQR Ilyas, National Spokesperson for the AIMPLB.
The Board emphasized that despite legal provisions, courts have accepted such claims, leading to ongoing litigation. In a recent example, a civil court in Ajmer has agreed to hear a petition alleging that the revered Ajmer Dargah is actually the Sankat Mochan Mahadev Temple.
The Allahabad High Court's decision on December 10th will have significant implications for the future of the Gyanvapi mosque and similar disputes across India. The outcome could set a precedent for how religious sites are managed and contested in the country.
