New Delhi, December 15, 2023: In a move that sent tremors through the religious and legal landscape of India, the Supreme Court on Friday declined to stay the Allahabad High Court’s order allowing a court-monitored survey of the Shahi Idgah complex in Mathura. The complex stands adjacent to the revered Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, and its ownership has been at the center of a contentious land dispute for decades.
The High Court’s December 14th decision, granting permission for a “scientific survey” of the Idgah, had sparked immediate protests from Muslim groups who manage the complex. They argued that the order, sought by Hindu parties claiming the land belongs to the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple trust, was a direct attack on their right to worship and an attempt to rewrite history.
The Supreme Court’s refusal to intervene, albeit on an oral plea, has left the Muslim side with limited options. While they can file an appeal against the High Court order, the decision has reignited the years-long legal battle and intensified communal tensions surrounding the disputed site.
Origins of the Conflict:
The dispute dates back centuries, with claims and counter-claims over the ownership of the land where the Shahi Idgah and the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple stand. Hindu litigants argue that the Idgah was built on a portion of the temple complex after its demolition by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1670. Muslim groups, however, maintain that the Idgah has existed for centuries and its demolition would be an assault on their religious freedom.
High Court’s Order and Reactions:
The Allahabad High Court, in its December 14th order, directed the appointment of a three-member committee of advocate commissioners to conduct a “videographic survey” of the Idgah complex. The court also emphasized that the survey should be conducted in a “fair and transparent” manner, respecting the religious sentiments of all communities.
The decision was met with immediate condemnation from Muslim groups, including the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, which manages the Idgah. They argued that the survey was unnecessary and amounted to harassment, and that the High Court had ignored their pleas for a stay on the order.
Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government has assured that the survey will be conducted respectfully and without any harm to the Idgah. However, tensions are likely to rise in the coming days as the survey team prepares to begin its work. Security has been beefed up around the disputed site to prevent any untoward incidents.
This development marks a significant turning point in the Mathura land dispute, which has been simmering for decades. The Supreme Court’s decision has the potential to reignite communal tensions and could lead to protracted legal battles. Whether the court-appointed survey will finally resolve the dispute or further complicate it remains to be seen.