The Allahabad High Court has thrust the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) into the spotlight, demanding a response to a contentious lawsuit seeking a survey of the Jama Masjid in Agra. The plaintiffs, representing the deity Thakur Keshav Dev Ji Maharaj Virajman Mandir Katra Keshav Dev, allege that remnants of an idol from the demolished Keshav Dev temple are buried beneath the mosque’s grounds.
Allegations of Historical Desecration
The lawsuit makes audacious claims, asserting that Mughal emperor Aurangzeb demolished the Keshav Dev temple in Mathura in 1670 and concealed remnants of the idol under the Jama Masjid in Agra. This allegation has ignited a firestorm of controversy and historical debate, with far-reaching implications for communal relations in India.
Judicial Scrutiny and Advocate Commissioner
Justice Mayank Kumar Jain, presiding over the case, has ordered the ASI to submit its response to the plaintiffs’ application, which also seeks the appointment of an advocate commissioner to oversee the survey. This move indicates the court’s willingness to delve into the historical and archaeological complexities surrounding the case.
Shahi Idgah Masjidi’s Impleadment Application
In a parallel development, the management committee of Shahi Idgah Masjidi in Mathura has filed an impleadment application, requesting to be included as a defendant in the lawsuit. This intervention adds another layer of complexity to the legal proceedings, as various stakeholders assert their interests in the historical narrative surrounding the Jama Masjid.
Upcoming Hearing: August 5
The court has scheduled the next hearing for August 5, setting the stage for a potentially landmark decision that could reshape the understanding of historical events and their contemporary repercussions. The case has attracted widespread attention and is expected to spark intense debate and scrutiny from all quarters.
Key Learnings
| Key Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Allahabad High Court demands ASI response in Agra Jama Masjid survey case. | Plaintiffs allege remnants of a Hindu idol are buried beneath the mosque. |
| Allegations claim Mughal emperor Aurangzeb demolished Keshav Dev temple and concealed idol under Jama Masjid. | This claim has ignited controversy and historical debate. |
| Court orders ASI to submit response and considers appointing an advocate commissioner. | This indicates the court’s willingness to examine the historical and archaeological aspects of the case. |
| Shahi Idgah Masjidi seeks to become a defendant in the lawsuit. | This adds another layer of complexity to the legal proceedings. |
| Next hearing scheduled for August 5. | The case is expected to attract widespread attention and spark intense debate. |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
