Supreme Court's Preservation Order Debated in Gyanvapi Mosque Dispute

The Anjuman Intezamia Committee opposed a proposed ASI survey of the Gyanvapi Mosque Wazukhana, referencing a Supreme Court order to preserve the area. Petitioner Rakhi Singh challenges this, advocating for the survey to help the court make an informed decision on the religious character of the property.

The Anjuman Intezamia Committee has informed the Allahabad High Court that an ASI survey of the Gyanvapi Mosque Wazukhana is impermissible due to a Supreme Court order mandating the area's preservation.

The committee filed a counter-affidavit stressing that issues related to the Wazukhana and the 'Shiv Linga' are under Supreme Court jurisdiction, which issued a stay order for the site's preservation and assigned its security to the District Magistrate of Varanasi.

Petitioner Rakhi Singh, challenging a Varanasi district judge's October 21, 2023 order denying the ASI survey except for the 'Shiva Linga,' insists a survey is crucial for justice. Singh emphasizes that a non-invasive survey could clarify the religious nature of the property.

(With inputs from agencies.)