The survey of the Gyanvapi Complex proceeded despite warnings from the Muslim side that they would boycott the entire exercise if there were any “rumours” spread about the discovery of Hindu religious symbols and objects during the inspection.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted scientific tests of the area under the three domes of the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi on the third day of the survey to ascertain if the mosque was built over a temple.
Despite warnings from the Muslim side about potential boycott if “rumours” of Hindu religious symbols and objects being found were spread, the survey continued. The government counsel, Rajesh Mishra, mentioned that the survey work commenced at 8 am and continued until 5 pm, with a two-hour lunch break.
The survey will resume at 8 am on the following day. According to Vishnu Shankar Jain, the lawyer representing the Hindu side, scientific tests were conducted on Sunday, including photography, mapping, and measurements under all three domes. Some basements were cleaned, and their survey work will continue on the next day.
The Muslim side, represented by Syed Mohammad Yasin from the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid, was present during the survey on Sunday, but they had boycotted the survey on Friday. Mr. Yasin expressed concern about media rumors spreading regarding the survey results and warned of another boycott if such acts were not contained.
The Hindu side refrained from commenting on the findings of the survey as it is being conducted under the court’s supervision. Sudhir Tripathi, another advocate representing the Hindu side, expressed satisfaction with the survey so far, mentioning the use of Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) and other techniques and machines.
The Supreme Court, while refusing to stay the Allahabad High Court order on the ASI survey, instructed that no invasive act should be carried out during the survey. The survey has been a matter of sensitivity for both the Hindu and Muslim communities due to the religious significance of the Gyanvapi mosque and its historical context.