Allahabad High Court Approves Survey of Shahi Idgah Mosque in Krishna Janmabhoomi Dispute

Mathura, December 14th, 2023: The Allahabad High Court on Thursday ignited a new chapter in the long-standing Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah Mosque dispute by allowing the appointment of an advocate commissioner to survey the Shahi Idgah premises in Mathura. This decision, mirroring the court-monitored survey conducted at the Gyanvapi Temple in Varanasi, has reignited tensions and reignited hope for both sides of the contentious issue.

Hindu Petitioners Claim Ancient Temples Lies Beneath:

Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu petitioners, asserts that "shahi Idgah Masjid possesses numerous Hindu temple symbols and signs, necessitating an advocate commissioner's inspection to ascertain the truth." The petitioners contend that the disputed land belonged to the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi and was thus a Hindu place of worship before the mosque's construction.

Historical Claims Add Fuel to the Fire:

Further fueling the controversy, petitioners claim the Shahi Idgah Mosque was built on temple grounds during Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's reign. These claims echo those in a Mathura court lawsuit demanding the removal of the mosque constructed in 1669-70 on the orders of Aurangzeb, allegedly occupying 13.37 acres of the Katra Keshav Dev temple complex near Lord Krishna's birthplace.

Legal Maneuvers Amidst Mounting Cases:

With nine related cases already pending in Mathura court, Ranjana Agnihotri, a Lucknow resident, has filed a suit claiming ownership of the disputed 13.37 acres and demanding the Shahi Idgah mosque's removal.

Following the May 26th Allahabad High Court decision consolidating all Mathura court suits concerning the conflict, the Hindu party petitioned the Supreme Court on August 14th, 2023, requesting a scientific survey of the disputed area. While the Supreme Court postponed further hearing to January 9th, 2024, the Shahi Idgah Mosque management committee contested the High Court's consolidation order, arguing that a Coordinate Bench had already stayed proceedings in the original suit on August 3rd, 2022.

A Delicate Path Ahead:

The Allahabad High Court's latest decision marks a significant development in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah Mosque dispute. While the upcoming survey promises potential resolution, it also carries the weight of historic claims, religious fervor, and ongoing legal battles. As the January hearing approaches, the future of the disputed land and the fate of both religious communities remain uncertain.