Justice Rohit Ranjan Agrawal issued the ruling during the hearing of an appeal submitted by the committee responsible for overseeing the mosque’s affairs.
The hearing on an appeal filed by the Anzuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, challenging the Varanasi court’s order allowing Hindu devotees to offer prayers in the cellar of Gyanvapi mosque, has been adjourned by the Allahabad High Court until February 6. Justice Rohit Ranjan Agrawal passed this order during the hearing of the committee’s appeal, as they are responsible for the mosque’s affairs.
Following the Supreme Court’s refusal to hear their plea against the Varanasi district court’s order and directing them to approach the high court, the committee promptly approached the high court. On Wednesday, the Varanasi court had ruled that a priest can conduct prayers in front of the idols located in the southern cellar of the Gyanvapi mosque.
Bandh in Varanasi areas
Ahead of Friday namaz, the district court’s order to allow Hindu prayers in a cellar of the Gyanvapi mosque has resulted in the closure of shops and parts of Muslim-dominated areas. In response to this, the police have issued a high alert in the entire Varanasi district.
The Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, responsible for the Gyanvapi mosque, has called for a bandh in the town on Friday. This bandh has had a visible impact on the Muslim-dominated market areas in Dalmandi, Nai Sadak, Nadesar, and Ardal bazar.
In a letter issued by the committee, they have requested the closure of markets and urged people to offer namaz peacefully. Muslim women have been advised to stay in their houses during this time.
To ensure security, Police Commissioner Ashok Mutha Jain held a meeting with police officials late last night. Additional police forces have been mobilized from neighboring districts to maintain peace throughout the day. Furthermore, extra security forces have been deployed near Kashi Vishwanath Dham and its surrounding areas.
Sensitive areas have been placed under the supervision of the Rapid Police Force (RPF). People have already gathered in the Gyanvapi mosque complex for the namaz.