ASI Survey Report: Gyanvapi Mosque Built on Temple Ruins, Claims Hindu Petitioners Lawyer

The lawyer representing the Hindu petitioners in the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi case asserts that the Archaeological Survey of Indias (ASI) scientific survey report suggests the Gyanvapi mosque was constructed on the remnants of a grand Hindu temple demolished during Aurangzebs reign.

In a significant development in the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi case, the lawyer representing the Hindu petitioners has asserted that the scientific survey report conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) suggests the mosque was constructed on the remnants of a pre-existing temple.

Report Reveals Evidence of Temple's Existence

Vishnu Shankar Jain, the lawyer for the Hindu petitioners, informed reporters that the court provided the parties involved with copies of the extensive 839-page report on Thursday evening. According to Jain, the report clearly indicates that the mosque, situated adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Mandir, was built upon the ruins of a magnificent Hindu temple that was demolished during the reign of Aurangzeb in the 17th century.

Discovery of Statues and Temple Elements

Jain further claimed that the survey report presents substantial evidence supporting the existence of a temple at the site where the mosque currently stands. He highlighted the discovery of debris from statues of Hindu deities in two basements during the survey. Additionally, he stated that certain components of the pre-existing temple, including pillars, were incorporated into the construction of the Gyanvapi mosque.

Inscriptions and Symbols

Jain drew attention to the presence of inscriptions on stone in Persian language, which provide details about the order and date of the temple's demolition. He also mentioned the discovery of a stone inscribed with the term "mahamukti." Furthermore, Jain pointed out that the western wall at the rear of the mosque is believed to be the wall of the pre-existing temple, featuring inscriptions of a ghanta (large bell) and a swastik symbol.

Architectural Evidence

Jain emphasized that the survey report indicates the roof of the basement rests on pillars of temples in the Nagar style. He interpreted this evidence as suggesting the existence of a grand temple prior to its demolition by Aurangzeb in the 17th century.

Appeal for Further Survey

Jain expressed the intention to appeal in court for a survey of the wazu khana, where ablutions are performed before namaz. He stated that based on the report, they will present their case by submitting evidence during the next hearing scheduled for February 6.

Multiple Applications for Survey Report

Earlier in the day, a total of 11 individuals from both the Hindu and Muslim sides filed applications in court seeking access to the ASI survey report on the Gyanvapi complex adjoining the Kashi Vishwanath temple.

The release of the ASI survey report has ignited renewed interest in the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi case, with the Hindu petitioners claiming substantial evidence supporting their assertion that the mosque was built on the remains of a pre-existing temple. As the case progresses, the court's interpretation of the report and the subsequent legal proceedings will be closely watched by both parties involved and the wider public.