Varanasi: Anjuman Intezamia Masajid (AIM) has written to the District Magistrate (DM) of Varanasi, highlighting the distressing situation of dying fish in the sealed ‘wuzukhana’ at Gyanvapi Mosque. Acting on behalf of the Hindu side, four women plaintiffs have also approached the Supreme Court, requesting directives to the Varanasi DM to address the issue of fish carcasses and clean the ablution pond.
The application filed by the women plaintiffs seeks urgent action and states that the water tank and its surrounding area, which were sealed on May 16, 2022, after the detection of a Shivlingam (a sacred symbol of Lord Shiva), have not been cleaned since then. Furthermore, the application states that the fish in the water tank began dying between December 20 and 25, resulting in a putrid smell emanating from the tank.
Advocate Vishnu Jain, representing the women plaintiffs, emphasized the significance of keeping the Shivlingam away from dirt and dead animals, stating that its current condition is hurting the sentiments of Lord Shiva’s devotees.
AIM had previously brought the issue of dead fish to the attention of the DM, highlighting the foul smell and the potential health risks posed by decomposing fish. However, the DM clarified that any action regarding the situation can only be taken after receiving court orders, as the area remains sealed as per the court’s instructions.
In addition to the CRPF personnel stationed for Gyanvapi security and the Namazis (Muslim worshippers), even devotees passing through the area to reach the Kashi Vishwanath temple are reportedly experiencing difficulties due to the foul smell.
The distressing condition of the fish and the lack of cleaning in the water tank has raised concerns among the Hindu community, prompting them to seek intervention from the Supreme Court and the DM. They hope that immediate action will be taken to remove the fish carcasses and cleanse the ablution pond in accordance with the sacredness of the Shivlingam.
The AIM is responsible for the upkeep of the premises, and the women plaintiffs, representing the Hindu side, are eagerly awaiting a favorable response from the Supreme Court regarding their urgent application. As this situation continues to unfold, the Hindu community hopes for a resolution that respects their religious sentiments and ensures the cleanliness of the sacred space at Gyanvapi Mosque.
