Breaking : Allahabad High Court Dismisses Mosque Committee’s Challenge to ASI Survey in Gyanvapi Case

Gaurav Nihaliya
3 min readAug 3, 2023

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The Gyanvapi Mosque, located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, has been at the center of a contentious legal battle for decades. Recently, the long-standing dispute took a significant turn when the Allahabad High Court dismissed the mosque committee’s challenge to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey. The court’s decision has reignited the debate surrounding the historical and religious significance of the site, while also raising important questions about preserving India’s cultural heritage.

The Gyanvapi Mosque stands adjacent to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest sites for Hindus across the world. The dispute over the mosque’s existence dates back to the 17th century, during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Historical records suggest that the mosque was constructed on the ruins of a Hindu temple, causing deep-rooted grievances and religious sensitivities among the Hindu community.

- Legal Battle and ASI Survey

In 1991, a petition was filed in the Allahabad High Court, seeking to reclaim the land on which the Gyanvapi Mosque stands and to remove the mosque altogether. The case has since been embroiled in complex legal proceedings, with both sides presenting historical evidence and religious sentiments to bolster their claims.

As part of the investigation, the court ordered an ASI survey to assess the structure’s historical aspects and determine whether any remnants of the pre-existing temple existed within the mosque. The ASI, known for its expertise in archaeological investigations, was entrusted with the task of conducting a thorough examination of the site.

“इलाहाबाद हाईकोर्ट ने अंजुमन इंतजामिया की याचिका को ख़ारिज किया गया, अब सर्वे होगा”

◆ ज्ञानवापी मुद्दे पर हिंदी पक्ष के वकील विष्णु शंकर जैन का बयान

Gyanvapi | #Gyanvapi | Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee pic.twitter.com/m4ngayJnkO

— News24 (@news24tvchannel) August 3, 2023

The Court’s Verdict

After meticulous scrutiny and analysis, the ASI submitted its report to the court. However, the mosque committee, responsible for overseeing the mosque’s affairs, challenged the validity and credibility of the ASI survey findings. They argued that the survey was biased and aimed at undermining the mosque’s religious significance.

In a landmark ruling, the Allahabad High Court dismissed the mosque committee’s challenge, upholding the authenticity of the ASI survey. The court asserted that the survey was conducted with utmost diligence and without any prejudiced intent. It further emphasized that the aim of the survey was to unravel the historical truth, irrespective of its potential ramifications on religious sentiments.

The court’s decision has triggered mixed reactions across the nation. Supporters of the ASI survey hail it as a victory for historical accuracy and secularism, as it seeks to uncover the historical heritage of the land. They believe that a transparent examination of historical sites helps foster a deeper understanding of India’s rich and diverse cultural past.

Conversely, some religious groups view the court’s verdict as an intrusion into matters of faith and worship. They express concerns about the potential consequences of such investigations, fearing that they could intensify religious tensions and disturb communal harmony.

The Gyanvapi case continues to be a sensitive issue, touching upon religious sentiments and historical heritage. It is vital for all stakeholders to approach the matter with a sense of respect and empathy. While the court’s decision upholds the ASI survey, it should also prompt dialogue and understanding between different religious communities, encouraging them to jointly preserve and celebrate India’s shared cultural heritage.

As the legal battle persists, it is crucial for India’s judiciary to strike a delicate balance between respecting religious beliefs and uncovering historical truths. Ultimately, the Gyanvapi case presents an opportunity for the nation to come together, bridging gaps and embracing the diverse tapestry of its rich cultural history.

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Gaurav Nihaliya
Gaurav Nihaliya

Written by Gaurav Nihaliya

"Passionate explorer, lifelong learner, and believer in the power of kindness."

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