Introduction:

The Varanasi District Court is poised to determine whether the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) scientific survey report concerning the Gyanvapi Mosque-Kashi Vishwanath Temple dispute should be disclosed to the public and provided to involved parties. The hearing on applications seeking access to the survey report was adjourned in response to the ASI’s request for a delay, citing ongoing legal proceedings and concerns about misrepresentation affecting its work.

Arguments of Both Sides:

The ASI petitioned the Varanasi District Judge, seeking a postponement in releasing the Gyanvapi Survey Report, highlighting a High Court directive requiring the report’s submission in a 1991 lawsuit. The ASI emphasized potential rumors and misrepresentation impacting their ongoing work if the report’s contents were disclosed prematurely. This request followed a scientific survey mandated by the Varanasi District Judge in response to ascertain if the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple.

Court’s Judgment:

The Varanasi District Court adjourned the hearing to January 24, considering the ASI’s plea for time to submit the survey report in the 1991 suit. The Court recognized the sensitive nature of the report and its potential impact on public perception, leading to the postponement. The decision aims to balance the need for transparency with the ASI’s obligation to adhere to legal proceedings and ensure the report’s accurate presentation without premature public dissemination.