Gyanvapi dispute has entered another significant phase after both the Hindu and Muslim parties declined the Supreme Court's mediation proposal, stating that the matter should be decided through the legal process rather than an out-of-court settlement.

The mediation initiative was part of the Supreme Court's broader effort to encourage negotiated settlements in sensitive cases ahead of a Special Lok Adalat scheduled for August 21–23. However, both sides have expressed their preference for a judicial verdict.

Supreme Court's Mediation Initiative

The Supreme Court introduced the SAMADHAN SAMAROH initiative—Supreme Court Action for Mediated Adjudication and Disputes Harmonisation Across Nation—to promote amicable settlements in pending legal disputes through mediation.

As part of the programme, parties involved in several high-profile cases, including the Gyanvapi dispute, were asked to appear before a mediation centre in Varanasi to explore the possibility of reaching a mutually acceptable solution.

Despite the court's efforts, the mediation proposal did not receive support from either side.

Hindu Side Seeks Legal Verdict

Representatives of the Hindu petitioners said they believe the dispute should be resolved strictly through judicial proceedings.

The Hindu side maintains that the site is associated with the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple and has argued that the issue requires a legal determination by the courts rather than negotiations outside the judicial framework.

Their legal representatives reiterated that they would continue pursuing their claims through the ongoing court process.

Muslim Side Also Declines Mediation

The Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, representing the Muslim side, also declined to participate in the mediation process.

Committee representatives stated that they do not believe mediation would lead to a meaningful resolution and prefer the matter to remain before the courts for a final legal decision.

With both parties rejecting mediation, the dispute is expected to continue through judicial proceedings.

Background of the Gyanvapi Dispute

The Gyanvapi dispute concerns the religious status of the Gyanvapi Mosque, located adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

Hindu petitioners claim that the mosque was constructed after the demolition of a temple during the Mughal period and have sought legal rights related to the site.

The Muslim side maintains that the mosque is a legally recognised waqf property and has challenged the maintainability of the petitions under the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991.

Several related petitions remain pending before different courts, making the case one of the country's most closely watched religious and legal disputes.

Legal Proceedings to Continue

With mediation no longer being pursued, the focus now shifts back to the judicial process.

The courts are expected to continue hearing the pending petitions and examine legal questions surrounding historical claims, property rights and the interpretation of existing laws.

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