New Delhi: The Madhya Pradesh High Court on Friday ruled that the disputed Bhojshala in Dhar is a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati).
Delivering its verdict, the High Court said it had considered archaeological and historical evidence, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) report, provisions of the ASI Act and the Supreme Court’s Ayodhya judgment while arriving at its conclusion.
According to reports, the court observed that the historically protected structure was a temple of Goddess Saraswati and directed the Centre and the Archaeological Survey of India to decide the future management mechanism of the Bhojshala complex.
The court further clarified that under the 1958 ASI Act, the overall management of the property would remain with the ASI.
Earlier ASI orders quashed
The High Court also set aside the ASI’s 2003 order that denied Hindus the right to worship at Bhojshala. At the same time, it struck down the order allowing Muslims to offer namaz at the site.
The Muslim side, which has maintained that the structure is the Kamal Maula Mosque, was advised by the court to seek separate land from the government for a mosque.
Key observations by the court
Evidence of a Saraswati temple and Sanskrit learning centre was found at Bhojshala
Archaeological records, historical material, ASI findings and the Ayodhya verdict were relied upon
Governments have a duty to protect ancient monuments, temples and religious idols connected to faith and heritage
Muslim side to challenge verdict
Dhar city Qazi Waqar Sadiq said the Muslim side respects the judgment but will review the order before approaching the Supreme Court of India.
Following the verdict, heavy security was deployed outside Bhojshala and barricades were placed at the main entrance to prevent any untoward incident.
