Madhya Pradesh High Court Declares Dhar Bhojshala a Temple, Major Verdict in Favour of Hindus

Dhar: The Indore Bench of Madhya Pradesh High Court, while giving a big verdict on the long-running Bhojshala dispute, has declared Bhojshala located in Dhar as a temple. The court said in its order that the tradition of Hindu worship at this site never ended and historical records prove that this place was a major center of Sanskrit education and worship of Goddess Vagdevi during the time of Raja Bhoj. The decision is being considered a big victory for the Hindu side.

What did the High Court say in its order?

The court said that the disputed complex of Bhojshala and Kamal Maula Masjid has been a protected monument since March 18, 1904. The court also accepted that the religious nature of this site is established as a temple of Goddess Vagdevi Saraswati. The court has directed the Central Government and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to take appropriate decisions regarding the administration and management of the complex.

What responsibility has been given to ASI?

The High Court made it clear that the ASI will continue the overall administration of the disputed complex. The court also said that administrative arrangements should be made keeping in mind the historical importance of Bhojshala temple and Sanskrit education center.

Why was security increased in Dhar before the verdict?

Before the verdict, Section 163 was imposed in Dhar district. Gatherings of more than five people, demonstrations and processions were banned. Police were also continuously monitoring social media so that no inflammatory post or rumor spoils the atmosphere. Special attention was also kept on the sale of petrol and diesel bottles.

What is the Bhojshala controversy?

The Bhojshala dispute has been going on between Hindu and Muslim parties for many years. The Hindu side claims that this place is an ancient temple of Goddess Vagdevi i.e. Saraswati, while the Muslim side considers it to be the Kamal Maula Mosque. During Vasant Panchami, there was tension many times regarding pooja and Namaz.

How did the matter reach the court?

In the year 2022, Hindu Front for Justice had filed a petition in the High Court demanding to decide the religious nature of Bhojshala and to give full rights to Hindu society. After this the court ordered ASI to conduct a scientific survey.

What was found in the ASI survey?

During the survey that lasted for about 98 days, ASI had said that 106 pillars and 82 plaster structures were found in the complex. The report claimed that these could be related to the old temple structure. Remains of figures like gods, goddesses, lions and elephants were also found on many pillars. Apart from this, inscriptions and ancient coins of Parmar period were also found.

What are the main demands of the Hindu side?

The Hindu side has been continuously demanding the right to regular worship on the Bhojshala premises, a ban on Namaz and the restoration of the statue of Maa Vagdevi. Besides, a demand has also been made from the central government to form a trust and hand over the management of the complex.