look news india
After the controversies related to religious places in Saharanpur and Moradabad, now a new controversy has arisen regarding the Shahi Jama Masjid of the historical city of Meerut in western Uttar Pradesh. It is claimed that an ancient Buddhist monastery, monastery or archaeological remains of the Maurya period are buried beneath this centuries-old historical mosque located in the Kotwali area of Meerut.
Former General Secretary of Meerut District Bar Association and senior advocate Ram Kumar Sharma submitted a formal application to Meerut Division Commissioner Bhanu Chandra Goswami and District Magistrate for scientific investigation of the entire complex and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) The demand for conducting a survey has been raised. A copy of the memorandum has also been sent to Uttar Pradesh Government Minister Aseem Arun. Considering the sensitivity of the matter, the Divisional Commissioner has instructed the District Magistrate to investigate the matter and take further action as per rules.
The memorandum submitted by the advocate cites several historical documents and evidence to corroborate his claims:
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Meerut District Gazetteer (1904): Citing historical references recorded in the official gazetteer of the British period, it has been said that Meerut has been a major center of Buddhist and Maurya period activities since ancient times.
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Hiuen Tsang’s travelogue: Referring to the accounts of Xuanzang, the famous Chinese Buddhist monk and traveler who came to India in the 7th century, it has been said that many Buddhist stupas and monasteries of the era of Emperor Ashoka were present in this area.
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Historian Prof. Mention of KD Sharma’s research: In the memorandum, senior historian Professor K. Reference has also been made to the claims of D. Sharma, who allegedly spoke about the presence of ornate stone pillars in the internal structure of the mosque, which match the architectural style of the ancient Maurya or Buddhist period.
The claiming party says that this demand is not against any religion, community or method of worship. Its main objective is only to conduct scientific investigation of the veracity of historical facts and to ensure the conservation of potential ancient heritages.
It has been demanded in the application that:
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A high level joint committee of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), State Archeology Department, geologists, experts in Buddhist studies and district administration should be formed.
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The complex should be investigated through modern Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and other non-invasive scientific techniques, so that a conclusion can be reached.
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The advocate has said that if the hearing is not held at the administrative level, then they will approach the court on the basis of evidence.
According to administrative officials, at present it is only a memorandum and claim submitted by one party. No ancient Buddhist structure has yet been confirmed archaeologically or officially. The administration is now examining the available revenue records, Waqf documents and historical evidence. The police administration is on full alert to maintain law and order and social harmony in the city.