In recent developments surrounding the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has submitted a report indicating evidence that the mosque was constructed after demolishing a temple. Alok Kumar, the international working president of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), asserts that the findings, including a Shivlinga and inscriptions with names like Janardana, Rudra, and Umeswara, strongly point to the structure’s origins as a Hindu temple.
Mr. Kumar goes further, urging the Anjum Intezamia Masjid Committee, entrusted with the mosque’s management, to consider relocating the Gyanvapi mosque to a more suitable location. He proposes handing over the original site of ‘Kashi Vishvanatha’ to the Hindu Society in a respectful manner. According to Kumar, the evidence aligns with the belief that the structure should be declared a Hindu temple under the Places of Worship Act, 1991.
The VHP not only advocates for the transfer of the mosque but also suggests that Hindus should be allowed to perform ‘Sewa Puja’ to the Shivlinga in the Wazukhana area of the Gyanvapi mosque. This proposal reflects an effort to bridge religious divides and foster amicable relations between the Hindu and Muslim communities.
About Gyanvapi Controversy:
The call for a shift in the mosque’s location and the assertion of Hindu worship rights within the Gyanvapi complex has sparked a debate on the delicate balance between historical claims and communal harmony. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad, affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh, sees these actions as essential steps toward promoting understanding and cooperation between India’s two prominent communities.
As the discourse unfolds, it raises questions about the interpretation of historical evidence, the role of religious institutions, and the implications for interfaith relationships in the region. The Gyanvapi controversy underscores the need for a nuanced approach to heritage sites, where preservation, respect for diverse beliefs, and dialogue become paramount in maintaining social cohesion.
In navigating these complex issues, stakeholders are challenged to find common ground that respects both historical narratives and contemporary communal sensitivities. Only through open communication and a commitment to shared values can communities hope to move forward with mutual understanding and harmony.
