The court cites procedural lapses while allowing suits to proceed; next hearing on May 15 to address defects and related legal issues
PRAYAGRAJ — The Allahabad High Court has recently rejected an objection filed by the Muslim side on the maintainability of suits related to the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Idgah Mosque dispute, citing procedural shortcomings in the application.
The objection was linked to multiple civil suits concerning ownership and rights over the disputed site in Mathura. With this order, the court has allowed the cases to continue, while making it clear that the issue has been decided on technical grounds.
The order was passed by Justice Awnish Saxena, who noted that the written statement filed by the mosque side did not meet the required legal standards.
According to the court, the document lacked proper authorisation and verification, which are necessary under civil procedure rules. It also pointed out that the written statement did not carry the signature of an authorised person.
The court observed that since the original filing itself was not legally complete, seeking amendments at this stage was not appropriate.
The Muslim side had requested permission to amend its written statement by adding new paragraphs. Through this, it intended to argue that the plaintiffs had not placed sufficient material on record to establish the basis of their claims.
A legal representative said, “We raised concerns about the basis of the claims. Our position remains that the matter must be examined strictly under law.”
The plea stated that without supporting material, the suits did not establish a valid cause of action and should be dismissed.
While rejecting the objection, the court clarified that the order does not determine the final rights of either party.
A court observer said, “The order is based on technical grounds. It does not decide the final rights of either side.”
Legal experts also pointed out that such procedural rulings are part of the early stages of litigation and do not reflect the final outcome.
The court has fixed May 15 for hearing another application filed by the mosque side to address the procedural defects identified in the order.
Several other important petitions remain pending. These include pleas related to a survey of the Shahi Idgah premises, compliance with legal provisions, and requests from different parties seeking permission to offer prayers.
An advocate familiar with the case said, “This is not the final outcome. Both sides will continue to present their arguments, and the court will decide step by step.”
The Mathura dispute remains a sensitive matter, with both Hindu and Muslim sides maintaining their claims.
The court has indicated that further decisions will be taken only after all legal requirements are met and arguments are heard in detail, keeping the focus on due process as the case moves forward.
