The latest report by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) sheds light on the history of the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex in Mathura. According to ASI's response to an RTI query, it has been confirmed that a temple dedicated to Keshavdev once stood on parts of the Katra mound. The ASI referred to a gazette from November 1920, which mentioned the dismantling of the Keshavdev temple to make space for Aurangzeb's mosque.

The RTI request was initiated by Ajay Pratap Singh from Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh. Although the reply didn't explicitly mention "Krishna Janmabhoomi," it did confirm the demolition of the Keshavdev temple by Aurangzeb.

This confirmation has emboldened those advocating for the removal of the Shahi Idgah mosque from the site. Mahendra Pratap Singh, the president of Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Mukti Nyas and a petitioner against the mosque, intends to present this evidence to both the Allahabad High Court and the Supreme Court. Singh argues that ASI's response, along with historical evidence, supports their claim that Aurangzeb ordered the temple's demolition in 1670 CE. He believes this strengthens their demand for a survey of the Shahi Idgah mosque, excluding it from the protection of the Place of Worship Act, 1991.

The Supreme Court recently extended the interim stay on the Allahabad High Court's order for a court-monitored survey of the Shahi Idgah mosque complex in Mathura, with the stay expected to continue until the first half of April.

ASI Confirms Historical Records: Aurangzeb Demolished Krishna's Birthplace in Mathura

Rich Cultural Heritage Inspires Rs 1,220 Crore Mega Project in Mathura