Shivling inside Gyanvapi mosque? Court seals pond amid claim & counter as video survey ends

A 'shivling' has been found inside Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi - this is what some people connected to the mosque-temple case claimed on May 16. The contention was quickly contested by the opposing side.

On May 16, the third and last day of the videographic survey of the mosque, claims emerged that a 'shivling' - an idol linked to Hindu god Shiv - had been found in a pond in the Gyanvapi mosque premises.

The 'shivling' was found when water was drained from the pond for the survey, as per reports. Subsequently, a local court hearing the case ordered that the pond be sealed. The pond is reportedly used for 'wuzu' or purification ritual before namaz by Muslim devotees.

Also watch: Gyanvapi mosque case judge: 'Family worried about my safety'

The survey of the mosque was ordered by the court after some women filed a petition, seeking permission to conduct prayers at the Shringar Gauri shrine located at the mosque's wall.

The Gyanvapi mosque is located close to the Kashi Vishwanath temple.