Madhya Pradesh High Court to Inspect Historic Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Complex Amidst Religious Dispute

The Madhya Pradesh High Court declared its intent on Monday to inspect the Bhojshala Temple-Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Dhar, set to occur before April 2. The decision comes amid pervasive disputes concerning the ASI-protected site, tied to allegations by Hindus referring to it as a temple and Muslims as a mosque.

According to a 2003 ASI order, Hindus can conduct prayers every Tuesday and Muslims every Friday. Justices Vijay Kumar Shukla and Alok Awasthi scheduled April 2 for further petition hearings but called for a pre-hearing inspection to understand the complexities firsthand. During the visit, no parties will accompany the inspection.

The contested site is a mosaic of historical narratives. The ASI's comprehensive report suggests a significant ancient structure, predating the current forms, rooting in the Paramara period. Both archaeological findings and religious claims converge, making the terrain of judicial review intricate amidst ongoing religious dialogues.