The Gyanvapi mosque case is set to come up for hearing in the Supreme Court today amidst an already tense atmosphere across the country over the controversial issue.
A plea challenging the maintainability of a suit filed by Hindu women seeking permission to worship alleged Shivalinga found inside the mosque premises will be argued.
The mosque is close to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi, and the issue has been a topic of polarized debate for decades.
The apex court had previously transferred the case to a lower court while also imposing restrictions on attempts to excavate in the area.
As the petition comes up for adjudication again at the highest court, groups from both sides have indicated plans to step up activism.
Legal experts underline that sensitive handling of the proceedings is vital to maintaining peace while letting the judicial process take its course.
Many are watching closely how the top court utilizes its authority to address competing claims and beliefs over the religious site.
