Gyanvapi Case: Supreme Court To Hear On 14 April Muslim Side Plea For Alternative 'Wuzu' Arrangement

The Supreme Court of India has agreed to hear a fresh plea by the Muslim side in the Gyanvapi mosque-Kashi Vishwanath Temple dispute case in Varanasi.

The plea seeks an alternative arrangement for 'Wuzu' or ablution where the Shivling was reportedly found, in view of the more significant rush expected during the month of Ramzan.

The bench of Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud and Justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala said they would hear the matter on 14 April.

Senior Advocate Huzefa Ahmadi for the Muslim side presented the matter before the bench for an urgent hearing, saying that the court had already ordered that adequate arrangements should be made.

However, these arrangements are yet to be made, and with more worshippers expected during Ramzan, Ahmadi informed the bench that they are requesting arrangements for Wuzu.

Last week, the Supreme Court allowed the Muslim side to file an application before it regarding their request to carry out the practice of 'Wuzu' inside the mosque premises during the month of Ramzan.

Ahmadi explained that during the month of Ramzan, worshippers should be able to carry out the practice of 'Wuzu' inside the premises.

The 'Wuzu' area of the Gyanvapi mosque is at the centre of the Gyanvapi mosque-Kashi Vishwanath Temple dispute between Hindus and Muslims.

The Hindu parties claim that a 'Shivling' has been found in that spot. However, the Muslim side has disputed this claim and said it is only a water fountain.

The Gyanvapi Mosque was built in 1669 by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb upon the ruins of the ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Ever since the temple was destroyed and replaced with the mosque, there has been a fierce dispute between Hindus and Muslims over the ownership of the site.