In an urgent hearing, the Supreme Court on Monday halted the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Survey of the disputed Gyanvapi structure till July 26, 5 pm.

The apex court grants time to the Muslim side to move the High Court challenging the district court order permitting the ASI Survey of the disputed structure.

The High Court is to hear the appeal before July 26, 5 pm before the status quo order expires.

“Having regard to the fact that the order of the district court was passed on Friday at 4:30 PM, we think that some breathing period should be allowed and we direct that the district court’s order shall not be enforced till July 26, 2023, 5 pm. Should the petitioner move the High Court, the Registrar will ensure that the same is placed before the appropriate bench before the status quo order ends,” a bench led by Chief Justice DY Chnadrachud said.

Earlier, on  Monday, the Muslim side moved Supreme Court and sought a stay on the Varanasi court’s order directing ASI to conduct a scientific survey of the disputed Gyanvapi structure.