The Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled on Friday that the historic Dhar Bhojshala is a Hindu temple. Moreover, the court granted the Hindu community the right to perform rituals at the site.
The court noted that continuous Hindu worship never ceased on the premises. Additionally, historical sources confirm that the site served as a Sanskrit educational center under King Bhoj of the Paramara dynasty. The verdict came from the Indore bench of the High Court.
Muslim Community Can Apply For Mosque Land
The case centered on whether the site functioned as the Vagdevi Temple or Kamal Maula Masjid. The court relied on the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) detailed reports and confirmed the building’s protected status.
Furthermore, the court said Muslims could apply for mosque land separately. The judgment considers ASI findings, constitutional protections under Articles 25 and 26, and precedents like the Ayodhya case.
Peaceful Friday Prayers Observed Amid Security
Friday prayers continued peacefully at Bhojshala under heavy security. Authorities deployed over 1,000 police officers, monitored social media, and detained potential troublemakers. Both communities were repeatedly urged to respect the court’s decision.
ASI Conducts 98-Day Scientific Survey
The court ordered ASI to conduct a thorough survey, which lasted from March 22 to the end of June 2024. ASI submitted a 2,000-page report on July 15. Investigators found the current structure reused pillars and remnants of a historic temple.
Artifacts included Paramara-era statues, engraved stones, and inscriptions, confirming historical Hindu use.
Historical Background and Parties Involved
The Bhojshala dispute spans decades. Legal challenges intensified in 2022 after the Hindu Front for Justice filed a petition. According to a 2003 ASI order, Hindus could worship Tuesdays sunrise to sunset, and Muslims could hold Friday prayers from 1 pm to 3 pm. Remaining days were open to tourists.
Three parties primarily contested:
- Hindu side: Claims the site originates as an 11th-century Saraswati temple and Gurukul built by King Bhoj, demanding unrestricted worship rights.
- Muslim side: Represented by Maulana Kamaluddin Welfare Society, claims the site functioned as Kamal Maula Masjid for centuries. They argued the ASI survey lacked transparency.
- Jain side: Recently intervened, claiming the site was originally a Jain Gurukul and temple, with the Vagdevi statue actually representing Jain Yakshini Ambika.
The High Court’s verdict confirms the Hindu worship rights, while safeguarding Muslim and other community considerations.
