Allahabad High Court Rejects Deity Radharani’s Impleadment Plea in Krishna Janmabhoomi–Shahi Idgah Dispute

On May 24, 2025, the Allahabad High Court dismissed an application filed on behalf of Deity Shriji Radha Rani Vrishbhanu Kumari Vrindavani (Goddess Radha) seeking to be impleaded as a party in one of the 18 suits concerning the Krishna Janmabhoomi–Shahi Idgah dispute in Mathura.

The application, submitted through Advocate Reena N. Singh, contended that Radha Rani is the spiritual consort of Lord Krishna (Plaintiff No. 1 in Suit No. 7) and jointly worshipped with Him.  It further claimed that both deities have co-owned the 13.37-acre disputed land at Katra Keshav Dev since time immemorial, citing references from various Purans and Sanhitas.

However, Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra rejected the plea, stating that the applicant is neither a necessary nor proper party to the suit.  The Court observed that the claim was based on “Pauranic illustrations,” which are generally considered hearsay in legal proceedings, lacking direct observation or testimony.  The bench noted: “The claim of the applicant as a joint holder of property in dispute together with plaintiff no. 1 is based on some reference in various Purans and Sanhitas wherein Shriji Radha Rani is considered as soul of lord Krishna. The Pauranic illustrations are generally considered as hearsay evidence in legal context.”

The Court emphasized that no concrete evidence was presented to substantiate the claim of joint ownership of the disputed land.  It also highlighted that the applicant’s assertions could potentially alter the nature and structure of the existing suit.

Nonetheless, the Court left room for future consideration, stating that if the applicant presents concrete evidence supporting the claim of joint ownership, the question of impleadment may be revisited at an appropriate stage.

The Krishna Janmabhoomi–Shahi Idgah dispute involves multiple suits filed by Hindu petitioners seeking possession of the land, demolition of the Shahi Idgah mosque, and restoration of the temple at what they claim to be Lord Krishna’s birthplace.  The next hearing in the case is scheduled for July 4, 2025.