The Supreme Court’s intervention has escalated the ongoing legal dispute concerning the ‘Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi’ temple in Mathura. The Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Mukti Nirman Trust asserts that the Shahi Idgah mosque was unlawfully built on temple land. The Allahabad High Court rejected the Trust’s request for a scientific study of the contested site, prompting the Trust to seek a stay on this ruling, breathing new life into the longstanding conflict with the Shahi Masjid Idgah management committee
Representing the Trust is Attorney Himanshu Shekhar Tripathi. He’s appealed to the Supreme Court to temporarily suspend the high court’s July 10, 2023 ruling, which upheld the denial of a scientific examination of the site. The Trust argues that the mosque can’t be considered legitimate due to its location on temple land, violating court decisions.
The Trust’s argument emphasizes the negative impact on devotees caused by non-religious use of the space by the management committee. The Trust claims this has led to damage to important architectural features and Hindu iconography, endangering the site’s cultural heritage and sanctity.
The Trust asserts that both the temple structures and surrounding land are under threat. A scientific survey, according to the Trust, would safeguard their cultural and religious significance while providing a credible basis for resolving the dispute.
The Trust initiated its legal action at the Mathura senior division civil court, seeking recognition of Hindu ownership and the right to worship at the Shri Krishna Janmasthan location. Following the high court’s involvement, the Trust appealed the trial court’s decision. The high court mandates resolving the suit’s maintenance issue before addressing related applications. The Trust and opposing parties are now presenting their arguments to the Supreme Court. The outcome of this legal battle could significantly shape the historical, cultural, and religious landscape as proceedings continue.