The Madhya Pradesh High Court’s recent decision to approve the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey at the Bhojshala Temple cum Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Dhar marks a significant development in the ongoing dispute over the site. The court’s order comes in the wake of a similar decision by a Varanasi court regarding the Gyanvapi mosque survey, indicating a growing trend of legal intervention in matters concerning religious sites.
The division bench of the Madhya Pradesh HC at Indore, comprising Justices SA Dharmadhikari and Devnarayan Mishra, emphasized the constitutional and statutory obligations of the ASI to conduct a scientific survey and study of the Bhojshala Temple and Kamal Maula Mosque complex. The court’s directive underscores the importance of a thorough examination of the historical and archaeological significance of the site, which has been a subject of contention between Hindu and Muslim communities.
According to the court’s order, the ASI has been tasked with completing a comprehensive investigation, survey, and excavation of the site. This includes opening sealed or locked rooms and halls within the complex. Additionally, structures found within the temple will undergo carbon dating and other scientific investigations to determine their age and historical context.
The decision to allow the ASI survey at the Bhojshala Temple complex comes amidst ongoing tensions and disputes over the religious identity of the site. For Hindus, the Bhojshala complex is revered as the temple of Goddess Waghdevi, while Muslims consider it as Kamal Moula’s mosque. The conflicting claims have led to communal tensions and legal battles spanning several years.
The HC’s direction to conduct a scientific survey is aimed at addressing these contentious issues and arriving at an objective assessment of the site’s historical significance. By involving the ASI, renowned for its expertise in archaeological research and preservation, the court seeks to ensure a thorough and impartial examination of the evidence.
The decision also reflects the court’s recognition of the importance of preserving India’s rich cultural heritage and promoting historical research. By unlocking the potential of the Bhojshala Temple complex as a site of archaeological significance, the ASI survey has the potential to shed light on centuries of history and culture embedded within its walls.
However, the legal battle over the Bhojshala Temple complex is far from over. The court’s order is likely to be met with resistance and scrutiny from various quarters, especially those vested in maintaining the status quo or advancing their respective religious claims. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for April 29, indicating that the legal proceedings will continue to unfold in the coming months.
The Bhojshala Temple complex has a troubled history, marked by communal tensions and disputes over its ownership and usage. The arrangement made by the ASI in 2003, allowing Hindus to perform puja on Tuesdays and Muslims to offer namaz on Fridays, has served as a temporary solution to manage the conflicting demands of both communities. However, it has not fully resolved the underlying issues surrounding the site.
The town of Dhar in Madhya Pradesh has witnessed multiple episodes of communal tensions arising from the Bhojshala Temple complex. Particularly during occasions like Basant Panchami coinciding with Friday prayers, the convergence of Hindu and Muslim worshippers has often led to confrontations and security concerns. The court’s decision to initiate a scientific survey is aimed at addressing these tensions and fostering a more informed and objective dialogue on the future of the site.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court’s approval of the ASI survey at the Bhojshala Temple cum Kamal Maula Mosque complex marks a significant step towards resolving the longstanding dispute over the site’s religious identity. By prioritizing scientific research and archaeological investigation, the court aims to promote transparency, objectivity, and respect for India’s diverse cultural heritage. However, the path ahead is likely to be fraught with challenges, requiring careful navigation and dialogue among all stakeholders involved.
