The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is expected to submit the scientific survey report of the Gyanvapi mosque premises to the Varanasi district court as the deadline ends on Tuesday. The survey, which lasted for 100 days, saw multiple extensions requested by the ASI.
The survey had concluded nearly a month ago, and the ASI had requested additional time to file the report. The last extension was granted on November 18, with the court allowing 10 extra days.
Since August 4, the ASI has been conducting the survey on the mosque premises, excluding the Wuzukhana area, which is sealed by the Supreme Court’s orders.
On November 2, the ASI informed the court that the survey was “completed,” but they needed more time to compile the report and provide details about the equipment used. The court extended the deadline until November 17 for document submission.
The survey was initiated by a Varanasi court on July 21 following a petition by four women who sought permission to pray at the Shringar Gauri Shrine located behind the western wall of the temple. In April of the previous year, a video survey of the complex was ordered based on the petition, revealing a structure in the Wuzukhana that the petitioners claimed to be a “shivling.”
Right-wing activists argue that a temple existed at the site before being demolished in the 17th century under the orders of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The mosque stands adjacent to the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
