Varanasi Court Orders Sharing of ASI Survey Report in Gyanvapi Case

 

Key Points:

• The Varanasi district court has directed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to share its scientific survey report on the Gyanvapi mosque with both Hindu and Muslim parties involved in the ongoing legal dispute.
• Judge AK Vishvesha reasoned that parties need access to the report to file objections if necessary.
• The sealed envelope containing the report will be opened by the court clerk, and copies provided to parties upon request.

Background:

• The ASI conducted the survey in July 2023 as part of the ongoing court case regarding the ownership of the Gyanvapi mosque complex.
• Hindus claim the mosque was built on the site of a demolished temple, while Muslims assert their right to worship at the mosque.
• Muslim parties had challenged the survey's legality, but the Supreme Court rejected their plea in August 2023.

Implications:

• Sharing the report allows both sides to analyze the findings and prepare their arguments accordingly.
• It could potentially accelerate the legal proceedings in the complex and highly sensitive case.
• The content of the report and subsequent objections could significantly impact the court's future decisions.

Additional Information:

• The Places of Worship Act, 1991, prohibits altering the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947.
• Both lower courts have rejected arguments related to this Act in the Gyanvapi case, allowing the suit to proceed.

Overall, the court's order signifies a crucial step towards potentially finalizing the Gyanvapi dispute. The contents of the report and subsequent developments will be closely watched in the coming months.

 

 (With input from news agency language)
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