Stalemate in Krishna Janmabhoomi-Eidgah Dispute Talks in Mathura
Unresolved Negotiations in Mathura
In Mathura, the discussions between the parties involved in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah dispute ended without resolution on Friday, as per the Supreme Court's directive. Lawyers informed that both sides presented their arguments before a special judge in the Essential Commodities Act court, but no consensus was reached.
Another round of talks is scheduled for August 18. If an agreement is not achieved this time, the parties may have to rely on the Supreme Court for a decision.
The dispute over the site of Lord Krishna's birthplace and the adjacent Shahi Eidgah has persisted for several years. Approximately 15 plaintiffs, identifying themselves as devoted followers of Lord Krishna, claim that the Shahi Eidgah is situated on land owned by the Krishna Janmabhoomi Trust, covering 13.37 acres. They have requested the return of this land to the Hindu side.
Several related cases are currently pending in the Allahabad High Court and the Supreme Court.
Lawyers indicated that the Supreme Court had instructed both parties to engage in dialogue through the District Legal Services Authority to seek a resolution. On July 4, the Hindu side proposed relocating the Eidgah to another site, but no representatives from the Muslim side attended the meeting. Consequently, a new date for discussions was set for Friday.
Mahendra Pratap Singh, the lawyer for the Hindu side, mentioned that they suggested providing alternative land to the Muslim side and returning the disputed land to the temple trust.
On the other hand, Tanveer Ahmed, a representative of the Muslim side and secretary of the Shahi Eidgah Management Committee, rejected the Hindu proposal, insisting on adhering to the agreement made in 1968 between the Shri Krishna Janmashthan Seva Sangh and the management committee. He argued that since the matter is under consideration by the Supreme Court, it should determine which party's claim is valid.
He further stated that there is no need for negotiation talks at this stage. Special judge Arvind Kumar has decided to hold another special court session as a final attempt, allowing both parties to present their case on August 18.