In a recent development concerning the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah Masjid dispute, the Allahabad High Court has rejected a plea from the Muslim side challenging the maintainability of the Hindu suits related to the case. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side, announced that they plan to file a caveat with the Supreme Court to ensure their presence in the event of an appeal.
The Allahabad High Court's decision dismissed the application filed by the Shahi Eidgah Masjid committee, which had contested the validity of 18 lawsuits initiated by Hindu devotees. The court determined that these suits are not barred by the Places of Worship Act. This ruling allows the trials to proceed, rejecting the attempt to dismiss the case based on its maintainability. The next hearing is scheduled for August 12.
Advocate Jain expressed confidence that the court’s decision upholds the legitimacy of the lawsuits. He stated, “Today, the Allahabad High Court has rejected the application filed by Shahi Eidgah Masjid and ruled that the 18 suits are not barred by the Places of Worship Act. We will file a caveat before the Supreme Court to ensure we are present if the Shahi Eidgah Masjid challenges this decision.”
In response to the court's ruling, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya welcomed the decision. He drew a parallel to the construction of the Ram Temple at Ram Janmabhoomi, stating, “We welcome the court’s decision. The construction of a grand temple at Ram Janmabhoomi happened after the Supreme Court’s judgement. I am confident that Shri Krishna devotees will also receive justice in due course.”
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak also expressed support for the court’s decision, aligning it with the sentiments of the people. “I welcome the court's decision. It reflects the sentiments of the people. Lord Ram and Lord Krishna are integral to our culture, heritage, and ideology,” Pathak remarked.
Previously, the Supreme Court had extended the interim stay on the Allahabad High Court's order, which had appointed a commission to examine the Shahi Eidgah Mosque in relation to the Mathura dispute. This extension will remain in effect until the next scheduled hearing.
The Supreme Court is currently handling various aspects of the Mathura Krishna Janmabhoomi land dispute. This case involves a suit seeking the removal of a mosque, believed to have been built in 1669-70 under Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb's orders, from the 13.37-acre site of the Katra Keshav Dev temple, located near Lord Krishna's birthplace.
The ongoing legal battle reflects the complex interplay of religious, historical, and legal issues surrounding one of India's significant heritage sites. The latest court decisions and upcoming hearings will be crucial in determining the future of this long standing dispute.