Today,23rd April, The ASI, in a recent application filed with the Indore bench of the high court, requested additional time to study the characteristics of the uncovered sections of structures within the disputed premises at Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex in Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh.
Indore: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), currently conducting a scientific survey at the medieval-era Bhojshala complex in Dhar district under the direction of the Madhya Pradesh High Court,requested an additional eight weeks to complete the task. In a recent application to the Indore bench of the high court, ASI explained the need for more time to study the exposed parts of the structures within the disputed site.
Bhojshala, an ASI-protected 11th-century monument, revered by Hindus as a temple dedicated to Vagdevi (Goddess Saraswati), while the Muslim community regards it as Kamal Maula Mosque. Under an ASI arrangement dating back to April 7, 2003, Hindus conduct puja at Bhojshala on Tuesdays, and Muslims offer namaz there on Fridays.
The next hearing in the Bhojshala dispute case scheduled for April 29 as per the high court’s directive. On the same day, the court is likely to address the ASI’s recent application. Previously, on March 11, the high court instructed the ASI to carry out a ‘scientific survey’ of the Bhojshala-Kamal Moula mosque complex within six weeks.
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Following this order, the ASI commenced the survey on March 22 as mandated by the court. The survey initiative stemmed from a petition filed by a group called Hindu Front For Justice (HFJ). The ASI’s ongoing application highlights its current progress in conducting a comprehensive survey using advanced scientific methods and documenting the entire monument and its surroundings.
The ASI explained,
“Excavation, being a meticulous and gradual process, is currently underway, and additional time will be necessary to comprehend the characteristics of the uncovered sections of the structures,”
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In addition, the ASI’s application highlighted its request to the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) for conducting a ground-penetrating radar (GPR) survey.
They further mentioned,
“A dedicated team from NGRI, along with their scientists, is diligently conducting regular surveys across the entire area, adhering strictly to the directives issued by the High Court.”
The dispute surrounding Bhojshala initiated from conflicting claims: the Hindu community regards it as the temple of Goddess Vagdevi, whereas the Muslim community identifies it as Kamal Maula Mosque.
Since April 7, 2003, the Archaeological Survey of India has acknowledged the significance of the complex to both communities. Under a special arrangement, Hindus can conduct puja on Tuesdays, while Muslims are granted permission to offer namaz on Fridays. This harmonious coexistence of religious rituals highlights the complex’s role as a symbol of India’s rich cultural and religious diversity.