Yogi Adityanath’s Controversial Gyanvapi Statement

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made a controversial statement regarding the Gyanvapi mosque, claiming that the site in Varanasi is not a mosque but rather a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Addressing a gathering in Gorakhpur, he said, “Unfortunately, people call Gyanvapi a mosque, but it is actually ‘Vishwanath,’ the temple of Lord Shiva.”

Yogi Adityanath further emphasized that the confusion surrounding the identity of Gyanvapi is not only a barrier to worship but also a threat to national unity and integrity. He remarked, “Had our society understood and recognized this obstacle earlier, our country would never have been colonized.”

The Gyanvapi Controversy:

The Gyanvapi mosque has long been a subject of dispute. Hindu activists claim that a Shiva temple was destroyed in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb to construct the mosque, a claim rejected by the Muslim side. In February, a Varanasi court allowed Hindu devotees to worship inside the sealed basement of the Gyanvapi mosque. Now, the Hindu side is seeking an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) investigation.

The court has set September 18 as the next hearing date, where the ASI’s involvement will be discussed. The issue has captured national attention, with various sections of society deeply engaged in the debate. Yogi Adityanath’s statement may further fuel the ongoing controversy surrounding the Gyanvapi mosque.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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