Supreme Court to Hear Muslim Petition on Alternative Prayer Space in Madhya Pradesh

The Supreme Court will hear a petition from the Muslim community concerning the lack of alternative prayer space near the Bhojshala complex in Madhya Pradesh. The court had previously ordered that a separate area be made available for Friday prayers, but compliance has been questioned. Senior advocate Huzaifa Ahmadi raised concerns about the proposed location being too far and unsuitable. The case highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the disputed site, which has been designated as a temple by the Madhya Pradesh High Court. This hearing is crucial for addressing the community's needs and ensuring adherence to judicial directives.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 29, 2026, 16:58 IST

Supreme Court Hearing on Prayer Space Controversy

On Thursday, the Supreme Court will address a petition from the Muslim community regarding the lack of compliance with court orders to provide an alternative location for Friday prayers near the disputed Bhojshala complex in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. The bench, comprising Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohan, had previously scheduled the hearing for July 24. However, the session could not proceed due to the bench's early adjournment.

As the court was concluding its proceedings, senior advocate Huzaifa Ahmadi raised the issue. The Chief Justice confirmed that the matter would be heard on Thursday. During the discussion, the Chief Justice inquired of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Madhya Pradesh government, why they had not provided alternative location details to Mr. Ahmadi. Ahmadi responded, stating, "Your orders are not being followed."

The proposed alternative site is located 1.3 kilometers away, with the district collector mandating that this be the only designated area. Ahmadi argued that the court's previous directives were not being adhered to. A legal officer mentioned that the administration had identified another location, but the bench rejected this suggestion.

Ahmadi objected to the newly proposed site, asserting that it was unsuitable and too far. He pointed out that there is land available in front of a nearby dargah that could be allocated for prayers.

On July 14, while hearing the Muslim community's appeal, the bench instructed the state government to ensure that an open space is made available for Friday prayers from 1 PM to 3 PM near the disputed Bhojshala complex, which the Madhya Pradesh High Court has designated as a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.