Krishna Janmabhoomi case moves ahead, key hearing on May 15

The long-running legal battle over one of India’s most sensitive religious sites is set for another crucial hearing, as the court fixes a fresh date amid continuing arguments from both sides.

In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court has scheduled May 15 as the next date of hearing in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah dispute , a case that continues to draw national attention due to its historical and legal complexities.

The matter was heard on Friday by Justice Avnish Saxena, who took up an amendment application filed by the Muslim side . After preliminary arguments, the court deferred further proceedings, allowing both parties more time to present their positions in detail.

The dispute itself dates back several decades but gained fresh legal momentum in recent years. At its core, the case revolves around claims that the Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura stands on land believed by Hindus to be the exact birthplace of Lord Krishna . Petitioners argue that a temple once existed at the site and was allegedly demolished during the reign of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, after which the mosque was constructed. The Muslim side, however, maintains that the mosque is a protected religious structure and disputes these claims.

The legal battle has intensified over time, with the Hindu petitioners filing 18 separate suits . These seek possession of the disputed land , removal of the mosque structure, restoration of the temple, and a permanent injunction to protect the site.

A key turning point came on August 1, 2024 , when the High Court rejected objections from the Muslim side regarding the maintainability of these suits . In its ruling, the court clarified that the petitions were not barred under major laws, including the Places of Worship Act 1991, the Waqf Act, and the Limitation Act , a decision that allowed the case to proceed further.

The outcome of this case is being closely watched, not just for its legal implications but also for its broader social and historical significance. As the next hearing approaches, all eyes will be on how the court navigates the delicate balance between faith, history, and constitutional law .