In Varanasi, eleven individuals, representing both Hindu and Muslim perspectives, have applied for copies of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey report on the Gyanvapi mosque complex adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath temple, as confirmed by counsel for the Hindu litigants on Thursday.
"The applicants, including advocates representing Hindu petitioners, the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid committee, Kashi Vishwanath Trust, the state government, chief secretary, home secretary, and the Varanasi district magistrate, are expected to receive the report by Monday following a scrutiny of their applications," said Hindu side counsel Madan Mohan Yadav.
The ASI on July 21 the previous year conducted a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi premises, as mandated by a district court order issued. The objective was to ascertain whether the mosque was built over a pre-existing structure of a Hindu temple.
"Till afternoon, 11 persons have applied from both sides for copies of ASI survey report," Yadav reported.
District Judge A K Vishvesh, in a ruling on Wednesday, determined that the ASI survey report would be accessible to both Hindu and Muslim parties involved in the matter. After considering the case, Judge Vishvesh emphasized that both parties should receive copies of the ASI's survey report, enabling them to submit objections if necessary.
The court extended this privilege to the Kashi Vishwanath temple trust, Varanasi District Magistrate, and the state's home secretary. This decision stemmed from a petition filed by Rakhi Singh and others.
The court-ordered survey followed claims by Hindu petitioners asserting that the 17th-century mosque was constructed atop a pre-existing temple. The ASI submitted its survey report to the district court in a sealed cover on December 18. The ongoing legal proceedings underscore the significance of transparency and accessibility of the ASI's findings to both involved parties.
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