Yogi Adityanath Performs Puja at Gyanvapi Cellar, Igniting Fresh Controversy

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: In a move that has sparked fresh controversy and heightened religious tensions, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday visited the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi and performed a puja inside the sealed cellar where Hindu idols were recently discovered. This unprecedented action by the Chief Minister comes amidst the ongoing legal battle over the ownership of the complex and has drawn strong reactions from both Hindu and Muslim communities.

CM’s Actions and Reactions:

Following a court order allowing access to the cellar for a videographic survey, Adityanath arrived at the Gyanvapi complex around 10:30 pm on Wednesday. He reportedly offered prayers before the historical idols found inside the cellar, which Hindu petitioners claim are deities belonging to the Kashi Vishwanath temple allegedly demolished by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb to build the Gyanvapi mosque.

The Chief Minister’s visit and puja have been met with mixed reactions. Hindu groups have hailed it as a historic moment and a victory for their faith. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) spokesperson called it a “divine intervention” and demanded immediate handover of the Gyanvapi complex to Hindus.

However, Muslim organizations have condemned the move as a blatant violation of the court order, which only allowed access for videography, not religious activities. They have expressed concerns that this act could further escalate tensions and jeopardize the ongoing legal proceedings.

Religious Significance and Legal Implications:

The Gyanvapi dispute has been a contentious issue for decades, with both Hindu and Muslim communities laying claim to the site. The recent discovery of idols has further fueled the controversy and raised questions about the historical ownership of the complex.

Adityanath’s visit and puja have added a new layer of complexity to the legal battle. While the court order did not explicitly forbid religious activities, some legal experts argue that the Chief Minister’s actions could be seen as prejudicing the case and influencing public opinion.

Potential Impact and Future Developments:

The Chief Minister’s visit is likely to have a significant impact on the ongoing legal proceedings and the broader religious landscape in India. It could further polarize the Hindu and Muslim communities and potentially lead to increased social unrest.

The future course of action remains uncertain. Hindu groups are likely to intensify their demand for ownership of the Gyanvapi complex based on the newly discovered idols. Muslim organizations are expected to challenge the Chief Minister’s actions in court and seek legal recourse to protect their claims.

It is important to note that this is a complex and sensitive issue with various perspectives and interpretations. This article aims to provide a neutral and objective overview of the recent developments, highlighting the key facts and potential implications.