Gyanvapi Mosque: SC Adjourns Plea Seeking Arrangements For Performance Of Wuzu To Await Outcome Of Administrative Meeting
The Supreme Court today adjourned the application seeking arrangements for the performance of 'Wuzu' and usage of toilet facilities in the Gyanvapi Mosque, to Friday, on the assurance of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that an administrative meeting will be convened tomorrow to find an amicable solution.
The Court noted that the meeting will be convened tomorrow and the Court will be apprised of what is decided in the meeting.
The Bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, Justice PS Narasimha and Justice J.B. Pardiwala noted that by the order passed on May 20, 2022, District Magistrate was directed to ensure that appropriate arrangements be made for the religious observance. The Court noted that in the present application, the applicant has sought direction to the 7th and 8th Respondents regarding arrangements for the performance of Wuzu and usage of the washroom.
Appearing for the Applicant, Senior Advocate Huzefa Ahmadi at the outset submitted that the application is a short one seeking arrangements for the performance of 'wuzu' and opening of the toilets as it is the month of Ramzaan and it is about hygiene. He further contended that the 'wuzu' was being done in the fountain area but pursuant to the order of the Apex Court, everything was sealed, including the washrooms and that it may be left to the authorities to find a solution. He further submitted that even providing mobile toilets will work for them.
Appearing for the State of Uttar Pradesh, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that the meeting will be convened tomorrow so that working arrangements are provided and that the Court's earlier order is being complied with. He further submitted that there might be some administrative issues, but the state can provide another route for transporting water.
Considering the submissions, the Bench noted that the previous order was clear and that the State will make arrangements for Wuzu and adjourned the matter to Friday. The Bench further noted that the parties will come back and tell the Court what the solution is.
The Supreme Court had agreed to hear on April 14, a plea by the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid committee seeking permission for 'Wazu' (ritual ablution) at the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi during the month of Ramzan, but the same got adjourned due to the declaration of a public holiday on April 14.
The Apex Court had also agreed to list for hearing, a related plea by the Hindu side seeking consolidation of all suits filed in a Varanasi court pertaining to the Gyanvapi mosque complex.
Cause Title: Committee Of Management Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Varanasi V. Rakhi Singh & Ors. [SLP(C) No. 9388/2022]
