Bhojshala Verdict: MP High Court declares disputed site as Saraswati temple, stops namaz in complex

The verdict was delivered by a division bench comprising Justice Vijay Kumar Shukla and Justice Alok Awasthi. The court held that the religious character of the site was Hindu in nature and linked to Goddess Vagdevi Saraswati and the legacy of Raja Bhoj’s Sanskrit learning centre.

Court Recognises Historical Hindu Character

The bench observed that historical records and literary references established the site as Bhojshala and noted that Hindu worship at the premises had continued over the years.

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The court stated that the continuity of Hindu religious practices at the site had “never been extinguished,” strengthening the claim of the Hindu petitioners seeking exclusive rights over the complex.

Namaz Discontinued Inside Complex

With the latest ruling, the long-standing arrangement allowing Muslims to offer Friday namaz at the site will come to an end. Since 2003, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had permitted Hindus to worship on Tuesdays while Muslims were allowed to offer prayers on Fridays.

The High Court said members of the Muslim community could approach the state government for the allocation of separate land in Dhar district for the construction of a mosque.

ASI to Continue Conservation Work

The court reaffirmed that the Bhojshala complex remains a protected monument under the Ancient Monuments Preservation framework, with protection dating back to March 18, 1904.

While the bench declined to place full reliance on the ASI’s scientific survey report, it clarified that the ASI would continue supervising preservation and conservation work at the monument.

Saraswati Idol Issue Also Mentioned

The court also referred to representations seeking the return of the idol of Goddess Saraswati, currently housed in a museum in London. It said the state government may examine the matter and consider reinstalling the idol at Bhojshala.

The dispute over the Dhar monument has remained sensitive for decades, with Hindu, Muslim and Jain groups laying claim to the site’s historical and religious identity.