Today, On 23rd October, the ASI informed the Delhi High Court that designating Jama Masjid as a protected monument would significantly impact preservation efforts and local regulations. The court expressed reluctance but called for suggestions to enhance management and address encroachments while reviewing PILs concerning its protection status and historical significance.
Today, On 24th September,the Punjab and Haryana High Court began a suo motu Public Interest Litigation after a man committed suicide at the Golden Temple using a firearm from a security officer accompanying a judge. The court identified the incident as a serious security lapse and summoned the Punjab Director General of Police for an investigation.
Today, On 28th August, The Delhi High Court directed the Centre and ASI to produce documents regarding the decision not to declare Jama Masjid a protected monument. This followed PILs requesting its protection and removal of encroachments. The court warned of action if the missing documents were not presented and scheduled the main hearing for September 27.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court reversed the MP Waqf Board’s decision declaring certain historical monuments as Waqf property, impacting the ownership and preservation debate. The Archaeological Survey of India’s assertion of ownership under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act of 1904 was upheld, leading to orders for ASI to vacate the premises.
The Allahabad High Court has set the next hearing for August 12 in the Krishna idol dispute. The court granted the Archaeological Survey of India one week to respond to a plea for surveying the Agra mosque. The case involves multiple petitions regarding the disputed Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah site and ongoing legal discourse.
Today,23rd April,The ASI requested an additional eight weeks to study the structures at the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex in Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh. The dispute arises from Hindu reverence of it as a temple, while Muslims see it as a mosque. The court will address the request on April 29. ASI is conducting a comprehensive survey with advanced scientific methods.
The ASI initiated a comprehensive survey of the Bhojshala/Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Madhya Pradesh, employing carbon-dating technology. Mandated by the High Court, the survey aims to resolve the historical dispute between Hindus and Muslims. Despite security measures, religious activities continue, while legal disputes and dissatisfaction from the Muslim community persist.
The Supreme Court of India Yesterday (March 12th), highlighted the importance of renovating historical monuments, citing the successful restoration projects at Sunder Nursery and Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi by the Archaeological Survey of India. The court emphasized the delicate balance between preservation and improvement, acknowledging the necessity and positive outcomes of appropriate renovation work, while ensuring that the fundamental characteristics of the monuments are not altered. This nuanced approach reflects the complexities involved in maintaining and enhancing heritage sites.
A Hindu party seeks an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the Gyanvapi Mosque’s cellars to establish its religious significance, highlighting the ongoing dispute with the Muslim community. The petitioner advocates for modern methods to access blocked cellars without damaging the mosque’s structure, reflecting the broader quest for historical truth and religious reconciliation in India.
In the Gyanvapi mosque case, a Hindu plaintiff urges the Supreme Court to allow a scientific survey of an alleged ‘Shivling’. They emphasize the need for a detailed investigation and propose the removal of modern structures to facilitate the survey. This plea holds significance for India’s cultural and religious heritage and could set a precedent for similar cases.