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Tezzbuzz Desk- The Indore bench of the High Court on Friday gave a big verdict in the historical Bhojshala case located in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. The court recognized the disputed site as a temple (Vagdevi Temple) and gave the Hindu side the right to worship. This decision is being considered an important victory for the Hindu side, while the court has left the option of limited rights for the Muslim side.

The court said in its judgment that the continuity of Hindu worship in the Bhojshala premises never completely ended. Citing historical and archaeological evidence, the court said the site was associated with King Bhoj of the Paramara dynasty and was also known as a center of Sanskrit education.

The court accepted the report of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and said that the scientific findings could be trusted. The court also accepted that it is a protected monument and the rights of its conservation will remain with ASI.

What was said for the Muslim side?

In the decision, it was made clear for the Muslim party that they can apply for their rights under the statutory process. The court directly barred permanent rights, indicating that the dominant form of the site is considered to be a temple, but parties can present their claims through the legal process.

Heavy security arrangements were made in the city before the decision. More than 1000 policemen were deployed and social media was also monitored. The administration ensured that no untoward situation arises. On Friday, the Muslim community offered prayers peacefully as per the scheduled time.

What came out in the ASI survey?

On the orders of the High Court, ASI had conducted a detailed scientific survey of this site, which lasted for about 98 days. The report said the current structure was built using pre-existing temple remains and pillars. Sculptures, carved stones and inscriptions of the Parmar period were also found in the survey.

The nearly 2000-page report also concluded that the site had a historical connection with a religious and educational centre.

This matter is several decades old, but after the petition in 2022, the controversy again came into limelight. Under ASI’s 2003 order, both communities were allowed worship and namaz for limited time. The Hindu side demanded the right of regular worship here, while the Muslim side called it a historical mosque.

Which parties were involved?

Hindu side: It is claimed that this is the 11th century Saraswati temple and Gurukul, which was built by Raja Bhoj.

Muslim side: The claim that this is the centuries-old Kamal Maula Mosque and the ASI report is biased.

Jain side: The Jain community also intervened, claiming that the site may originally have been a Jain religious centre.

This decision of the High Court has given a new direction to the Bhojshala controversy. While the Hindu side is calling it historical justice, legal options are still open for the Muslim side. Now the further process and possible appeal will decide the direction of this case.