Varanasi: A day after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) report on the Gyanvapi mosque complex revealed that "existed a large Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure," security measures around the Gyanvapi mosque have been stepped up.
In light of the Archeological Survey of India's survey report, which verified the existence of Hindu temples, today's Jumma (Friday prayers) at the contested Gyanvapi mosque is particularly significant. As a result, strict security protocols were implemented to avert any undesirable events.
In order to maintain tranquility for the orderly performance of the Friday prayer, the media was purposefully kept away from Gyanvapi. The authorities wanted to prevent any misunderstandings and unwarranted alarm.
Nonetheless, a deliberate attempt was made to handle any possible confrontations in the region.
Notably, an earlier structure appeared to have been destroyed in the 17th century, and "part of it was modified and reused," according to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) report on the Gyanvapi mosque complex. It also added that, based on scientific studies, it can be said that there "existed a large Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure."
A room was discovered with an Arabic-Persian inscription stating that the mosque was constructed during the 20th year of Aurangzeb's reign (1676-77 CE).
Therefore, it appears that the earlier construction was demolished in the 17th century, during Aurangzeb's reign, and that some of its components were altered and used in the current building. It may be concluded that a Hindu temple existed before the current structure was built based on scientific research and surveys, architectural remnants analysis, exposed features and artifacts, inscriptions, artwork, and sculptures, the ASI stated in its assessment.
"It can be said that there existed a large Hindu temple, prior to the construction of the existing structure, based on scientific studies and observations on central chamber and main entrance of the pre-existing structure in the existing structure, western chamber and western wall, reuse of pillars and pilasters of pre-existing structure in the existing structure, inscriptions on the existing structure, Arabic and Persian inscription on the loose stone, sculptural remains in cellars, etc.," the report continued.
The district court ordered the ASI assessment in response to the Hindu petitioners' allegations that a pre-existing temple was covered up by the Gyanvapi mosque, built in the 17th century.
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