The Varanasi district court has approved the consolidation of seven suits related to the Kashi Vishwanath temple dispute, originally filed in different local courts in 2021 and 2022. The court had previously transferred these suits to itself. District Judge Ajaya Krishna Vishvesha stated that it would be in the interest of justice to try all seven suits together. These suits, concerning the Shri Adi Vishveshwar Temple, were transferred to the district court on April 17 due to their common issues and subject matter. The court also decided that a petition by five women, including Rakhi Singh, regarding access to a Shringar Gauri Sthal in the Gyanvapi mosque complex, will be the leading petition. The Hindu petitioners cited a Supreme Court order from November 11, 2022, allowing for consolidation of suits before the District Judge. The application for consolidation was filed on May 3, with reference to Uttar Pradesh Act No.57 of 1976 and Order 4-A of the Civil Procedure Code. The Supreme Court recently extended its interim direction to secure the area in the Gyanvapi complex where a ‘Shivling’ was discovered, ensuring access for Muslim worshippers. This order followed the discovery of the ‘Shivling’ and is intended to maintain peace and harmony at the site.
