In a significant revelation on Saturday, 3rd February, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) disclosed details based on historical records from 1920 concerning the destruction of Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura. This historic site, revered by many, was demolished by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, marking a dark chapter in the history of the region.

The information came to light following a Right to Information (RTI) request filed by Ajay Pratap Singh, a local from Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh. Singh reached out to the Superintending Archaeologist of ASI, seeking to uncover specific details about the past of Krishna Janmabhoomi. His inquiry focused on the temple of Keshavadeva, which was razed in 1670 CE to make way for the construction of Shahi Idgah by Aurangzeb.

Singh's RTI query was precise, requesting the ASI to share findings from its survey carried out in November 1920. He asked for "the complete notification details of the monument name- Portions of Katra Mound which are not in the position of Nazul tenants on which formerly stood a temple of Kehsavadeva which was dismantled and the site utilized for the mosque of Aurangzeb which is located in the locality and District Mathura had preliminary and final notification numbers and dates- UP 1465/1133 M: 25-11-1920 and UP 1669-M/113:27 -12-1920."

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has provided compelling evidence from its 1920 survey in response to a Right to Information (RTI) query, shedding light on a historical event that has resonated through the centuries. The ASI's documents confirm the demolition of the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex in Mathura by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, a fact that has now been officially recorded.

In the detailed response, the ASI disclosed that the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex was cataloged as number 37 among a list of 39 monuments surveyed at the time. The official statement from the ASI read: “No. 1669M./118SM-IN exercise of the powers conferred by section 3, sub-section (3) of the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act (VII of 1904) His Honour the Lieutenant. Governor is hereby pleased to confirm this department notification no. 1465/1133M., dated the 25th November, 1920, published at pages 1911-1924 of the United Provinces Gazette, dated the 27th November, 1920, relating to the undermentioned monuments.”

The ASI went on to specifically mention “The portions of Katra Mound which are not in the position of Nazul tenants on which formerly stood a temple of Kehsavadeva which was dismantled and the site utilized for the mosque of Aurangzeb,” thereby confirming the exact location in Mathura where this historical alteration took place.

This information has significant implications. Advocate Mahendra Pratap Singh, President of Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Mukti Nyas, has announced plans to utilize this crucial piece of evidence in legal proceedings. He intends to present it before the High Court and subsequently, if necessary, before the Supreme Court.

The revelation from the ASI not only confirms historical accounts of Aurangzeb's actions but also provides a factual basis for understanding the cultural and religious transformations that have taken place in Mathura over the centuries. This development marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discussion about the historical and cultural heritage of India, potentially influencing future legal and social discourse on the matter.

‘Will not let any other mosque get martyred’: Hindu Sena Chief Receives Threat Over Krishna Janmabhoomi Case

In a disturbing turn of events on 30th January, Vishnu Gupta, the chief of Hindu Sena, became the target of a serious threat aimed at deterring him from pursuing the Krishna Janmabhoomi case. Gupta received a menacing letter accompanied by three live bullets, a clear message demanding his withdrawal from the legal battle concerning the Mathura Eidgah Mosque.

The content of the letter was stark and chilling: “Babri was martyred, but we will not let any other mosque get martyred. Vishnu, take back the Mathura Eidgah Mosque case; otherwise, you will be killed. You are an intelligent person. As three bullets have already reached you, the fourth will not take time to reach into your head. Allah Hu Akbar.”

This threat was discovered in an unsettling manner. Gupta was away from his home, attending a court hearing at the Allahabad High Court scheduled on 29th January. Upon his return, he found the yellow envelope, conspicuously placed in the handle of his main door. The contents—a handwritten letter and three live bullets—were meant to intimidate and coerce.

Speaking about the incident, Vishnu Gupta told OpIndia, “When I returned home, I saw the letter. Upon opening it, I found a handwritten letter threatening me to take back the case along with three bullets. I have filed a complaint at the police station.” He further emphasized that his organization, while actively involved in legal battles for Hindu causes, also engages in various social works.

The Madhu Vihar Police Station in the East Delhi district has formally registered an FIR, marking a significant development in the case. This action comes under Section 506 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to criminal intimidation, and Section 25 of the Arms Act, reflecting the severity of the threat received by Gupta.

Vishnu Gupta has been actively involved in legal proceedings related to the Krishna Janmabhoomi case, advocating his stance since December 2022. His commitment to the cause has unfortunately made him a target for threats and intimidation.

Detailing the events leading to the FIR, Gupta recounted his return home on 31st January at around 3:30 PM, after attending a court hearing. It was then that he discovered the threatening letter, ominously placed in the handle of his main door. Without hesitation, Gupta reached out to the police, promptly reporting the threat against him.

The police response was swift, with a team from the Delhi Police arriving at Gupta's residence to investigate the matter further. The evidence, including the letter and the bullets, was collected by an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI). The envelope bore a message explicitly addressed to the president of Hindu Sena, written in Hindi, indicating the intended recipient of this chilling message. The bullets, concealed in silver paper, alongside the threat penned on white paper, were handed over to the authorities for further examination.

In the face of alarming threats, Vishnu Gupta, the Chief of Hindu Sena, remains undeterred, showcasing a firm resolve to pursue the Krishna Janmabhoomi case. His stance is clear and defiant, signaling his refusal to be intimidated by the recent threats against his life. Gupta's statement encapsulates his determination: “We will not get scared. We will fight this case with full strength. Shri Ram Mandir is being built after fighting the case in the court. The same will happen in Gyanvapi. The Eidgah mosque will be removed, and Shri Krishna Janmbhoomi Mandir will be built there.”

This bold declaration comes in the wake of a handwritten letter that not only threatened Gupta with severe consequences but also referenced the historical and contentious issue of the Ayodhya dispute. The letter touched upon the demolition of the disputed structure in Ayodhya, which led to a landmark Supreme Court judgment in 2019. Following this judgment, the site was allocated to the Hindu community for the construction of a grand Ram Mandir, a development that has been a focal point of national attention.

The construction of the Ram Mandir has been progressing, with the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony having taken place on 22nd January 2024. The completion of this significant religious and cultural monument is anticipated within the next two years, marking the culmination of a long-standing legal and communal dialogue.

Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex: A Testament to Faith and History

The Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex in Mathura holds a profound place in the hearts of millions, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, a pivotal figure in Hindu mythology and spirituality. This sacred site, according to historical accounts, dates back approximately 5000 years. It was originally marked by the Keshavdeva temple, a monument of immense religious significance, said to have been constructed by Lord Krishna's great-grandsons, Vraj and Vrajnabha, with the assistance of King Parikshit.

However, the temple's long-standing history faced a tumultuous period during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. In a decree issued in 1670 CE, Aurangzeb ordered the demolition of the Keshavdeva temple. In its place, a Shahi Idgah Mosque was erected, a site where Aurangzeb is believed to have personally offered namaz. This act of destruction and replacement has been a focal point of historical and religious contention, symbolizing the loss of a significant cultural heritage for many.

The heart of the dispute in Mathura today revolves around the ownership and rightful claim to 13.37 acres of land. Currently, the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Trust is said to own 10.9 acres, while the Shahi Idgah Mosque occupies the remaining portion. The claims extend beyond mere land ownership, touching on deeper issues of historical justice, religious freedom, and cultural preservation. Advocates for the Hindu side assert that the entire land rightfully belongs to them, emphasizing a desire to reclaim and honor the sacredness of Lord Krishna's birthplace.

This complex and deeply rooted conflict underscores not only the local significance of the Krishna Janmabhoomi site but also its importance in the broader narrative of India's religious and cultural identity. The ongoing legal and social efforts to resolve the dispute reflect a wider struggle to reconcile historical grievances while seeking a path forward that respects the diverse tapestry of Indian heritage and beliefs.