Hindu Side Faces Setback in Gyanvapi Case; Court Rejects Demand for Re-survey by ASI
News Media Kiran Correspondent
*Varanasi:* In a significant development in the long-standing Gyanvapi case, the court has rejected the Hindu side's petition for a re-survey of the complex by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). This ruling comes after 33 years of hearings related to the original case from 1991. Following the conclusion of arguments from both sides on October 19, the court reserved its order, which was announced today.
The main petitioner, Vijay Shankar Rastogi, representing the Hindu side, filed a plea on February 7, 2024, requesting a new survey of the entire complex. He claimed that an ancient Shiva Lingam exists beneath the main dome and sought permission to excavate and investigate scientifically, except for a 100-meter section around the dome. Additionally, he requested an examination of a purported Shiva Lingam found in the ablution area during previous commission proceedings.
After extensive arguments, the court dismissed the petition today. The court referenced previous orders from the High Court and Supreme Court, which had instructed that no excavation should take place during the ASI survey conducted in 2021. At that time, it was emphasized that investigations should be carried out using machines without causing damage to the structure.
Vijay Shankar Rastogi and his son Sunil Rastogi expressed their intention to thoroughly review the 27-page order before deciding whether to appeal to the district judge or High Court. On the other hand, Ikhlaq Ahmed, representing the Muslim side, stated that they do not view this as a win or loss but rather as part of a legal process. He affirmed that if the Hindu side chooses to appeal, they will continue to follow up on the matter.
The hearings have been taking place in the court of Senior Civil Judge Fast Track Court Yugal Shambhu in Varanasi. During previous sessions, both sides presented their arguments, with the Hindu side insisting on a re-survey due to what they claimed were inadequacies in past ASI reports. Rastogi argued that without excavation, a comprehensive report cannot be produced.
Rastogi highlighted that many areas remain unexplored based on previous surveys related to regular darshan (viewing) of Shringar Gauri at Gyanvapi. He pointed out that significant locations, including beneath the central dome and within ablution areas where a Shiva Lingam was allegedly discovered, had not been adequately investigated.
The Anjuman Intezamia Committee opposed this motion, arguing that both the Allahabad High Court and Supreme Court had previously prohibited excavation and directed ASI officials to conduct surveys without causing any damage to the structure. They contended that reiterating demands for excavation is inappropriate given these existing orders.
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