The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has asked for eight additional weeks to finish the complex’s survey which was objected by the management committee of the Gyanvapi mosque.
The Varanasi district court on July 21 ordered the ASI to carry out a “detailed scientific survey” to ascertain whether the Gyanvapi mosque next to the Kashi Vishwanath temple is built upon a temple, including excavations where necessary.
According to the Muslim side in the case, the ASI is allegedly removing rubble next to the western wall and digging without permission in the basement and other areas of the Gyanvapi complex, damaging the building.
Rajesh Mishra, the government’s attorney, reported that the ASI had submitted a plea to District Judge A K Vishvesh asking for an eight-week delay for the survey.
On Monday, the Anjuman Intejamia Masjid Committee submitted its objection.
Mishra claims that the Muslim side has objected to the ASI’s request for more time to clear the area of trash and debris and said that the court simply ordered it to conduct a scientific examination of the area.
According to the Muslim side, the ASI team is not permitted to survey the premises by removing debris or trash.
The next date for hearing ASI’s appeal for additional time to complete the survey and submit its report has been set by the court for September 8.
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