Historic Ruling on Bhojshala Complex: Court Recognizes Hindu Worship
The Madhya Pradesh High Court has made a historic ruling, recognizing the Bhojshala complex in Dhar as a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdev. This decision affirms the continuous tradition of Hindu worship at the site and suggests the repatriation of a statue from London. The court has also recommended alternative land for mosque construction, while the ASI will oversee the site's administration. Following the ruling, security measures in Dhar have been intensified to maintain peace amid ongoing tensions between Hindu and Muslim communities. The implications of this ruling are significant, with the Muslim side planning to challenge the decision in higher courts.
May 15, 2026, 16:23 IST
Significant Judgment by Madhya Pradesh High Court
The Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court has delivered a landmark ruling, designating the disputed Bhojshala complex in Dhar as a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdev, also known as Saraswati. The court affirmed that the tradition of Hindu worship at this site has persisted uninterrupted over time, with regular rituals never ceasing. It was established through historical records, literary references, and architectural evidence that Bhojshala served as a prominent center for Sanskrit education during the reign of King Bhoj and housed a temple for Goddess Saraswati.
Court's Recommendations and Administrative Oversight
In its ruling, the court suggested that the Indian government consider repatriating the statue of Goddess Vagdev from the British Museum in London. Additionally, it proposed that the Maulana Kamaluddin Welfare Society or another new Waqf body might be allocated alternative land for mosque construction in Dhar. The overall administration of the Bhojshala complex will remain under the purview of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which will be responsible for its maintenance and preservation.
Reactions from Legal Representatives
Following the verdict, Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side, hailed the decision as historic, noting that the court partially annulled the ASI's order from April 7, 2003. He stated that the court recognized the Hindu community's right to worship at the Bhojshala complex, linking it to King Bhoj. Jain also mentioned that the court directed the government to consider the demand for the statue's return from the London museum, while allowing the Muslim side to present their case to the government.
Security Measures in Dhar District
In light of the ruling, security measures in Dhar district have been heightened. The district administration has urged residents to maintain peace and avoid spreading rumors. Collector Rajiv Ranjan Meena emphasized that strict action would be taken against anyone disseminating misleading information regarding the court's decision. He assured that the administration is closely monitoring the situation, prioritizing peace and law and order in the district.
Background of the Bhojshala Dispute
The Bhojshala complex has been a site of contention for a long time. The Hindu community claims it to be the temple of Goddess Vagdev, while the Muslim community regards it as the site of Kamal Maula Mosque. This religious dispute has led to ongoing legal battles between the two sides.
Court Proceedings and Findings
The Madhya Pradesh High Court's Indore bench reserved its judgment after concluding the final hearing on May 12. Justices Vijay Kumar Shukla and Alok Awasthi conducted regular hearings starting April 6, listening to arguments from petitioners, respondents, interveners, and the ASI. Advocate Shirish Dubey from the Bhoj Utsav Committee noted that the court heard all parties in detail for approximately sixty hours over twenty-five days.
Survey Report and Future Implications
Dubey mentioned that the court received comprehensive responses regarding the shortcomings and questions raised in the ASI's report. Conversely, ASI advocate Aviral Khare stated that the survey of the Bhojshala complex was conducted with complete fairness, transparency, and in accordance with court directives. He revealed that the survey report exceeds two thousand pages, detailing the survey process, investigative methods, findings from various locations, and analytical studies.
Changes in Worship Arrangements
Under the 2003 arrangement, the Hindu side was permitted to worship from sunrise to sunset on Tuesdays, while the Muslim community could offer prayers on Fridays from 1 PM to 3 PM. The recent ruling by the High Court is seen as a significant alteration to this arrangement. However, the Muslim side has indicated plans to challenge this decision in higher courts.