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Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side, revealed on Thursday that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) report suggests the presence of a Hindu temple beneath the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
Addressing a press conference, Jain highlighted key findings from the ASI survey, indicating that a large Hindu temple existed before the construction of the Gyanvapi mosque. He stated, “The ASI has systematically and scientifically studied the pillars and plasters used in the existing structure, revealing evidence of the enlargement of the mosque and the construction of Sahan. Parts of preexisting temples, including pillars and plasters, were reused with slight modifications.”
Jain further explained that a detailed examination of the pillars and plasters in the corridors strongly suggests their origin as part of a preexisting Hindu temple. Vyala figures carved on either side of the lotus medallion were allegedly mutilated, and space created after removing stone mass from the corners was adorned with floral designs.
The Varanasi district court, responding to the contentious issue, had directed the release of the ASI report on Wednesday. Both sides were instructed to receive hard copies of the report.
Advocate Hari Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side, emphasized the significance of the report, stating, “There is evidence to show that the mandir was demolished to make way for the construction of the mosque.” He added that, despite objections, the court ruled in favor of making the ASI report public, allowing everyone to scrutinize its contents.
The Gyanvapi mosque has been a subject of legal dispute, and the revelations from the ASI report may have far-reaching implications. The ongoing legal proceedings will continue to unfold as stakeholders await further insights into the historical and archaeological significance of the site.
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