The Allahabad High Court, situated in Prayagraj, has adjourned the hearing of a significant case concerning the Gyanvapi mosque until March 10. This case involves a petition seeking an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the mosque's wazukhana area, with a notable exclusion of a structure that has been a point of contention between Hindu and Muslim parties.
Key Details of the Court Proceedings
Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal presided over the hearing on Tuesday, where the decision to adjourn was made. The court was informed by the counsels for the involved parties that the matter is currently under the consideration of the Supreme Court, with the next hearing scheduled for February 10. In light of this development, the Allahabad High Court deemed it appropriate to postpone its own proceedings.
Background of the Case
The case originates from a civil revision petition filed by Rakhi Singh, who is one of the plaintiffs in the Shringar Gauri worshiping suit pending before the Varanasi court. The petition challenges an order dated October 21, 2023, issued by the Varanasi district judge. This order had refused to direct the ASI to conduct a survey of the wazukhana area, specifically excluding the structure that the Hindu side identifies as a Shivling and the Muslim side describes as a fountain.
Legal Representation and Arguments
During the hearing, the petitioner Rakhi Singh was represented by advocate Saurabh Tiwari. The respondent, the masjid management committee, was represented by senior advocate SFA Naqvi. Additionally, the state government's interests were represented by additional chief standing counsel Prabhuti Kant Tripathi. The adjournment was granted as all parties acknowledged the ongoing Supreme Court involvement, ensuring that the legal process remains coordinated and avoids conflicting rulings.
Implications of the Adjournment
The postponement of the hearing until March 10 allows for the Supreme Court to potentially address broader aspects of the case, which could influence the proceedings in the Allahabad High Court. This case is part of a larger legal battle surrounding the Gyanvapi mosque, highlighting the sensitive nature of religious and historical disputes in India. The ASI survey, if eventually ordered, aims to provide scientific insights into the wazukhana area, excluding the disputed structure, to aid in the resolution of the long-standing controversy.
As the legal proceedings continue, stakeholders from both sides await further developments, with the next hearing in the Supreme Court set for February 10, followed by the rescheduled hearing in the Allahabad High Court on March 10.
