Bhojshala Dispute: Hindu Groups Perform Puja, Mosque Committee to Move Supreme Court
Hindu groups performed worship at the Bhojshala complex in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, a day after the High Court declared it a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) acknowledged the verdict, granting Hindu communities "unrestricted access" for worship and learning. Meanwhile, Muslim bodies, including the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and Kamal Maula Mosque Committee, rejected the High Court's decision, terming it "one-sided." They announced plans to challenge the verdict in the Supreme Court, emphasizing the importance of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, in preventing the reopening of historical religious disputes.
Key Points
- Hindu groups conducted puja at the Bhojshala complex following a High Court verdict declaring it a Hindu temple.
- The ASI has granted unrestricted access to the Hindu community for worship and learning at the site.
- Muslim organizations, including AIMPLB, have rejected the High Court's decision and plan to appeal to the Supreme Court.
- The Muslim side argues the verdict is "one-sided" and disregards the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991.
- The dispute highlights broader concerns about revisiting religious sites and its implications for India's secular structure.
Exam Facts
- The Bhojshala complex is located in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh.
- The High Court declared it a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.
- The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, is central to the Muslim argument.
- Important Supreme Court judgments like Ismail Faruqui case (1994) and M. Siddiq (Ayodhya Verdict 2019) were mentioned.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.