The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has strongly criticized the recent decision by the Varanasi district court, allowing Hindu prayers in a cellar of the Gyanvapi Mosque, deeming it a hasty judgment that raised concerns about possible collusion.
AIMPLB President Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani expressed the organization’s deep concern, stating that the decision to allow puja at the mosque was taken hastily without giving the Muslim side a chance to present detailed arguments. He mentioned that the incident has not only pained Muslims but also people of other religions who believe in secularism.
Rahmani clarified that the notion of a temple being demolished to build a mosque is incorrect, emphasizing that Islam does not permit taking someone’s land to construct a mosque. He cited the Babri Masjid decision, where it was acknowledged that the temple was not brought down to build a mosque, yet the ruling favored the other side based on ‘aastha’ (faith). He urged courts to make decisions based on facts rather than faith.
In a statement issued by AIMPLB, the organization expressed regret and concern over the abrupt initiation of puja in the Gyanvapi Mosque’s cellar. The overnight breaking of iron grills and placement of idols, despite a seven-day window granted by the court, raised questions about potential collusion between the administration and the plaintiff, attempting to preclude efforts by the Mosque Managing Committee.
The statement further conveyed deep surprise and disappointment at the Varanasi District Judge’s judgment, considering it relied on a highly incorrect argument about the worship history in the mosque’s basement. AIMPLB criticized the decision and emphasized the need to implement the Places of Worship Act, 1991, in its letter and spirit to prevent disputes in the country.
The AIMPLB’s stance underscores the importance of fair and impartial judgments that consider the facts and uphold the principles of justice, aiming to maintain communal harmony and respect for places of worship. The organization calls for a more measured and inclusive approach to address such sensitive matters, emphasizing adherence to established laws to prevent conflicts.
