Supreme Court nods for cleaning Gyanvapi's 'Wazukhana' holding alleged 'Shivling'

New Delhi, January 16: In a recent development, the Supreme Court has given its approval for the cleaning of the 'wazukhana' area at Gyanvapi mosque, where the disputed 'Shivling' was purportedly discovered. The decision allows Hindu women petitioners to proceed with cleaning the site while maintaining hygienic conditions.

Judicial Nod for Cleaning Operations

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justices JB Pardiwala, and Manoj Misra greenlit the cleaning initiative, placing it under the supervision of the Varanasi district administration, in adherence to previous court directives.

Support from Gyanvapi Mosque Management Committee

The Gyanvapi mosque management committee has expressed its endorsement of the cleaning process, particularly concerning the water tank that has remained sealed for almost two years as mandated by the apex court.

Understanding 'Wazukhana'

The 'wazukhana' is the designated area where devotees perform ablutions before their prayers. The controversy revolves around the alleged presence of a 'Shivling' in this vicinity.

Petitioners' Concerns and Application

The application, filed by Hindu women petitioners through advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, highlighted the death of fishes in the water tank between December 12 to 25, 2023. The unpleasant odor emanating from the tank prompted concerns about the sacred 'Shivling' being amidst dirt and decay, causing distress to Lord Shiva's devotees.

Responsibility of Mosque Management

The petition held the Committee of Management Anjuman Intezamia Masjid accountable for the deteriorating condition of the fish and emphasized that had the fishes been relocated per the District Magistrate's request, the unfortunate situation could have been avoided.

Background of the Dispute

The 'wazukhana' area had been sealed in 2022 following a Supreme Court directive after the purported discovery of a 'Shivling.' This structure, contested by Hindus as a sacred symbol and by Muslims as a mere fountain, sparked a dispute during a court-mandated survey on May 16, 2022, within the Gyanvapi mosque premises, adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath temple.

Resolution in Progress

With the recent Supreme Court approval, the cleaning of the 'wazukhana' area becomes a pivotal step in addressing concerns about the hygiene and sanctity of the disputed site in the Gyanvapi-Kashi Vishwanath temple complex. The ongoing legal proceedings continue to unfold against the backdrop of a long-standing religious and cultural dispute.