In a significant and controversial development, the Allahabad High Court has dismissed the petitions filed by the Muslim side in the Gyanvapi Mosque dispute, allowing Hindu prayers to persist in the Gyanvapi Cellar. This marks a pivotal moment in the longstanding legal battle over ownership and religious rights at the contentious site.
Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal of the Allahabad High Court delivered the verdict after extensive deliberation between the involved parties. The announcement came on the heels of a prolonged legal process, with the verdict scheduled for release at 10 am on February 26.
The decision has sparked controversy, drawing criticism from Asaduddin Owaisi, the president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM). Owaisi raised concerns about a potential violation of the Places of Worship Act. He specifically pointed out that the ruling, issued on the last day before the judge’s retirement, allowed for Hindu prayers even though no offerings had been made at the site since 1993. Additionally, Owaisi questioned the directive to open the grills within seven days, arguing that a more extended period should have been granted for appeals.
Owaisi emphasized the significance of upholding the Places of Worship Act, referencing the Supreme Court’s decisions during the Babri Masjid title suit. The AIMIM president’s criticism underscores the contentious nature of the Gyanvapi Mosque dispute, with differing perspectives on legal interpretations and religious freedoms.
As the legal landscape evolves, the Gyanvapi case continues to be a focal point of debate, reflecting broader discussions about religious tolerance, legal precedent, and the delicate balance between diverse religious communities in India. The verdict’s implications extend beyond the immediate parties involved, resonating across the nation and sparking conversations about the need for nuanced approaches to religious disputes and historical sites.