Photo of Gyanvapi Mosque | Photo Credit : ANI
On August 5, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) resumed its scientific survey at the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, aiming to determine whether the 17th-century mosque was built on the site of a pre-existing Hindu temple. The day-long survey, starting in the morning and ending at 5 p.m., seeks to shed light on the historical and religious significance of the site.
The ASI survey faced opposition from the Muslim side, expressing concerns that it could reopen wounds of the past. However, the Supreme Court declined to stay the Allahabad High Court order on the survey, while also prohibiting any invasive acts during the process, ruling out excavations.
The scientific survey was initiated following the Varanasi district court’s order on July 21, prompting the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid committee to challenge it in the Allahabad High Court, which later dismissed the petition. The ASI was granted an additional month to complete the survey, extending the deadline to September 4.
