The Hindu side in the Gyanvapi temple case has submitted an application before the Supreme Court seeking a direction to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to carry out a detailed survey of the Shivling found inside the disputed structure.
The application states that the Shivling has been surrounded by artificial walls which is a modern construction and unconnected with the original building. The Hindu side has also said that the Shivling has no religious significance for Muslims since it is only a fountain according to the Masjid committee.
The Hindu side in their application has said that the modern construction around the Shivling has been intentionally done so as to hide features of the Shivling such as Peeth, Pithika, etc. The application states the ASI survey is needed to determine the original source of the Shivling.
The petitioners have sought an ASI scientific survey of the Shivling, the area around it, including the walls and the entire sealed area.
The top court had earlier permitted the ASI to survey the mosque premises using non-invasive technology barring the Shivling. The ASI later submitted a report stating that the existing structure was indeed built above an ancient Hindu temple.
