On Friday, the Varanasi Civil Judge (Senior Division) Fast Track Court, under Judge Yugul Shambhu, dismissed a plea by Hindu petitioners seeking an expanded Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) examination of the Gyanvapi complex. Advocate Vijay Shankar Rastogi, who filed the plea, expressed intent to review the order and may consider an appeal to either the Allahabad High Court or district court.
Petition Requested Comprehensive Archaeological Analysis
Rastogi, representing Lord Vishweshwar in the “Ancient Idol Swayambhu Lord Vishweshwar and Others Vs. Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee” case, filed the petition in February requesting a comprehensive survey of the entire Gyanvapi complex. He urged the ASI to employ Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), geo-radiology, and excavation to study key areas, including domes, cellars, and chambers, without damaging the structure.
Background and Previous ASI Survey
In July 2023, an ASI survey was already conducted per a Varanasi district judge’s order to investigate claims that the Gyanvapi mosque, located beside the Kashi Vishwanath temple, was constructed over a pre-existing Hindu temple. Findings from this survey were presented to the court in a sealed report on December 18 and shared with both parties.
The Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee, which manages the Gyanvapi Mosque, opposed the additional survey plea.
