The Allahabad High Court has scheduled March 5 as the next hearing date for the ongoing legal battle concerning the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah dispute in Mathura. The case is being overseen by Justice Ram Manohar Narain Mishra.
During a recent session, an issue arose when the Muslim side submitted an application to amend its petition, but failed to provide a copy to the Hindu side. The court has directed that the copy be shared and has set the next hearing date to continue discussions on this matter.
This legal dispute centers around the claims by Hindu groups seeking possession of the land currently occupied by the Shahi Idgah mosque, which they argue stands on the original birthplace of Lord Krishna. To date, the Hindu side has filed 18 suits demanding the “removal” of the mosque structure to allow for the restoration of the temple and a permanent injunction.
Significant rulings have shaped the course of this litigation. On August 1, 2024, the high court dismissed the Muslim side’s plea that challenged the maintainability of the suits filed by Hindu worshippers. The court clarified that these suits are not restricted by the Limitation Act, the Waqf Act, or the Places of Worship Act, 1991. The latter act generally prohibits the conversion of any religious structure as it existed on August 15, 1947, India’s Independence Day.
Additionally, on October 23, 2024, the high court rejected a motion by the Shahi Idgah mosque committee that sought to recall the court’s January 11, 2024, order which consolidated all suits related to the dispute.
