A new petition related to the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute of Mathura has been filed in the Allahabad High Court. Ashutosh Pandey, President of Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Mukti Nirman Trust, Mathura, has filed an application demanding permission for worship and parikrama at the Shri Krishna well situated in the disputed premises of Shahi Masjid Idgah. Shahi Masjid Idgah Secretary Tanveer Ahmed and Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board have been made parties in the petition.
It has been said in the petition that the followers of Sanatan Dharma have been performing Basodha Puja on the occasion of Mata Shitala Saptami and Ashtami for a long time at Shri Krishna Kupa. Along with this, circumambulation of Akhand Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi complex is also done on the day of Ekadashi. But, now the people of Shahi Masjid Idgah Committee are trying to stop these religious traditions.
Ashutosh Pandey said that Basodha Puja has special significance in Sanatan Dharma. Stale food is eaten in this puja and it is believed that it provides relief from diseases and sufferings. He told that there has been a tradition of worshiping at Shri Krishna Kupa on the occasion of weddings, marriages and festivals, which is now being interrupted due to controversies.
Through the petition, permission has been sought for worship at Shri Krishna well and circumambulation of the Janmabhoomi complex. Ashutosh Pandey says that these religious traditions are not only related to faith, but are also a part of centuries-old traditions. They believe that stopping them is a violation of religious freedom. For now, it will be important to see what stand the High Court takes in this matter. The case is likely to be heard in the coming days.
