Supreme Court refers Gyanvapi, Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah and Sambhal mosque disputes to Special Lok Adalat
New Delhi, July 13
The Supreme Court has referred the disputes relating to the religious character of the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple-Shahi Idgah mosque in Mathura and the disputed Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, to a Special Lok Adalat to explore the possibility of an amicable settlement.
The Special Lok Adalat, titled 'Samadhan', is scheduled to be held on the premises of the Supreme Court on August 21, 22 and 23, 2026. Ahead of the proceedings, notices have been issued to both the Hindu and Muslim parties to participate in pre-Lok Adalat conciliation proceedings.
According to an order issued by the Supreme Court Coordination Committee on June 5, the identified cases have been considered suitable for resolution through the Special Lok Adalat process.
"Take notice that the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India is organising 'Samadhan Samaroh', which will commence from April 21, 2026, and culminate in a Special Lok Adalat on August 21, 22 and 23, 2026, on the premises of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India. Your case has been identified as suitable for being referred to and taken up in the Special Lok Adalat," the notice stated.
As part of the process, a pre-Lok Adalat conciliation meeting was held in Mathura on July 5. While some of the Hindu plaintiffs attended the proceedings, representatives of the Muslim side did not appear. Further proceedings in the matter are awaited.
The three disputes pertained to the claims by Hindu petitioners that historic mosques in Uttar Pradesh were constructed over the demolished sites of ancient Hindu temples.
In the Gyanvapi mosque case, Hindu litigants claim the mosque was built on the site of the original 16th-century Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which was allegedly demolished by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The Shri Krishna Janmabhumi temple in Mathura dispute surrounds the 13.37-acre complex, where Hindu petitioners claim the Shahi Idgah mosque was built over the prison cell (Garbha Griha) where Lord Krishna is believed to have been born.
The Shah Jama Masjid case, which was initiated by a 2024 petition, centres on claims by the Hindu side that the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid (completed in 1526) in Sambhal was originally built over an ancient Hari Har Temple.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I am glad the Court is trying alternative dispute resolution. But the fact that Muslim representatives didn't attend the Mathura pre-meeting is worrying. If one side is unwilling to even talk, how will a settlement ever work? Both parties need to come to the table with an open mind.
Impressed with the Indian judiciary's innovative approach here. A Lok Adalat for such sensitive issues feels more appropriate than long, divisive court battles. However, the historical claims on both sides are complex; let's see if mediation can truly untangle centuries of history.
This 'Samadhan' Lok Adalat is a brilliant idea. These cases have been dragging on for decades and creating so much tension. I appreciate the Supreme Court's proactive role in trying to find a middle ground. Let's hope for peace and mutual respect. 🇮🇳
Admirable effort by the Supreme Court to prioritise resolution over prolonged litigation. This approach could be a model for other contentious issues. The key will be the willingness of all parties to compromise and focus on the future, rather than just the past.
At last, a sensible move! Instead of endless court hearings, let's use our traditional wisdom of 'Samadhan' (solution). But I must say, the non-participation by the Muslim side in the Mathura meeting is a bad sign. One cannot expect a fair outcome if you boycott the process. 🙏
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