Mathura Temple Agreement: A Historic Milestone in Resolving the Dispute
The Mathura Temple Agreement, signed on October 20, 2021, between the Uttar Pradesh government and the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan (SKJSS), has been hailed as a historic milestone in resolving the long-standing dispute over the ownership of the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple in Mathura.
The dispute dates back to 1968 when the SKJSS, a trust responsible for the upkeep of the temple, filed a suit claiming ownership of the entire 13.37-acre temple complex, including the Shahi Eidgah mosque adjacent to it, which was allegedly built on the site of an ancient Krishna temple.
The case has been going on for the past five decades, with the Allahabad High Court dismissing SKJSS’s claim in 1991, prompting the trust to file a review petition in the Supreme Court. However, the case remained in limbo for years, with both parties unable to come to an agreement.
The Mathura Temple Agreement, which was signed in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, aims to settle the dispute amicably by dividing the land between the two parties. As per the agreement, the state government will transfer 5.34 acres of land to the SKJSS for the construction of a new temple, while the remaining 8.03 acres will be used to develop infrastructure facilities, including a museum and a cultural center.
The agreement has been welcomed by both the SKJSS and the state government, with the former calling it a “landmark decision” and the latter describing it as a “historic moment” that would pave the way for communal harmony and peace in the region.
The Mathura Temple Agreement is not just a legal victory but also a symbolic one, as it represents a significant step towards resolving one of the most contentious issues in the country – the ownership of religious sites. It is also an indication that disputes of this nature can be resolved through dialogue and compromise, rather than through violence and extremism.
In conclusion, the Mathura Temple Agreement is a significant milestone in the history of India, and it sets a positive example for resolving disputes peacefully. It is a victory for the rule of law, communal harmony, and the principle of unity in diversity. We hope that this landmark agreement will inspire other parties involved in similar disputes to find a mutually acceptable solution and pave the way for greater peace and prosperity in the country.
