SC suggests temporary prayer space for Muslims near Bhojshala complex
The Supreme Court has refrained from restoring the status quo ante at the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula mosque complex, citing a desire to avoid 'tension' in the 'very sensitive' issue. Instead, the court suggested that the Madhya Pradesh government identify an open space nearby for the Muslim community to offer Friday namaz as an ad hoc measure until the case is finally decided. The Bench also prohibited the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from making any structural alterations to the disputed structure without its prior permission. This follows a Madhya Pradesh High Court ruling that declared the complex a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court declined to restore status quo ante at the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex to prevent tension.
- The court suggested a temporary prayer space for Muslims near the disputed site for Friday namaz.
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is prohibited from making structural alterations without the Supreme Court's permission.
- Petitioners argued for adherence to the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act of 1991.
- The Madhya Pradesh High Court had previously ruled the complex was a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.
Exam Facts
- The disputed site is the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula mosque complex in Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh.
- The Supreme Court Bench was headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant.
- Senior advocates A. M. Singhvi and Huzeifa Ahmadi appeared for the Muslim appellants.
- The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act of 1991 was mentioned.
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is involved in the site's management.
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