The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has requested an additional eight weeks from the Varanasi District Court to submit a report on the Gyanvapi mosque complex to determine if it was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple. The original deadline was four weeks, which ended on Saturday.
The court did not hear the ASI’s application on Saturday, but officials mentioned that it will be addressed soon.
In their application, the ASI stated that they are conducting a scientific investigation and survey at the site with a team of experts, including archaeologists, archaeological chemists, epigraphists, surveyors, photographers, and other technical personnel. Additionally, experts from the Geophysical Research Institute are conducting a GPR survey to analyze the acquired data.
The ASI mentioned that they found trash and debris in the cellars of the mosque, covering the original features of the structure. They are currently in the process of removing the debris carefully to examine the structures scientifically as directed by the court.
Amit Srivastava, the Standing Government Counsel representing ASI, stated that they have requested an extension of eight weeks. No decision was made on Saturday, and they are expecting the matter to be addressed soon.
The ASI will decide on continuing the survey on Sunday after a meeting. The survey at the Gyanvapi mosque was halted temporarily due to legal proceedings but resumed on August 4 under security measures.
On August 4, Varanasi District and Sessions Judge A K Vishvesha granted ASI four weeks to submit their report on the survey at the Gyanvapi mosque.
