Shri Krishna Janambhoomi case: In a pivotal development in the ongoing Shri Krishna Janambhoomi case, the Allahabad High Court has granted approval for a scientific survey of the Shahi Idgah complex in Mathura, akin to the one conducted at the Gyanvapi Temple in Varanasi.Appointment of Advocate CommissionerThe court has appointed an advocate commissioner for the survey and granted in-principle approval for the examination of the Shahi Idgah complex. The specifics regarding the commission of advocates for the survey will be finalised on December 18.Landmark Judgment LaudedVishnu Shankar Jain, the lawyer representing the Hindu side, hailed the decision, stating, Its a landmark judgement by the court. The courts approval follows the rejection of arguments presented by Shahi Idgah Masjid.Background of the DisputeThe Hindu side had previously moved an application seeking the appointment of a court-appointed advocate commissioner, contending that the land was integral to the Shri Krishnajanmbhoomi and served as a place of worship for Hindus. Claims suggested that the Shahi Eidgah Mosque was constructed on temple land during the reign of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.Courts Previous ActionsOn May 26, the Allahabad High Court had transferred all pending suits related to the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah Mosque dispute from the Mathura Court to itself. The Supreme Court, on November 10, listed the matter for further hearing on January 9, 2024.Appeal and Legal ProceedingsThe Committee of Management Trust Shahi Masjid Idgah had challenged the Allahabad High Court order in the Supreme Court. The appeal contested the transfer of petitions related to the Mathuras Krishna Janambhoomi land dispute.Ongoing Legal LandscapeNine cases related to the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Idgah Masjid are currently before the Mathura Court. A resident of Lucknow, Ranjana Agnihotri, has filed a suit seeking ownership of the 13.37 acres of land associated with Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi.Demands for Removal of Shahi IdgahAgnihotris suit urges the removal of the Shahi Idgah mosque, allegedly constructed in 1669-70 on the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb within the premises of Katra Keshav Dev temple, near the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
