Bhopal: The long-running dispute surrounding the Bhojshala complex in Madhya Pradesh’s Dhar district has taken a fresh turn after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) reportedly informed the Madhya Pradesh High Court that evidence found during a scientific survey points towards the existence of a Hindu temple at the site.
The ASI submitted its findings before the Indore bench of the High Court during the hearing of petitions related to the historic Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque complex, a site claimed by both Hindu and Muslim communities. According to the report, several architectural structures, carvings and remnants discovered during excavation were linked to temple-style construction.
The survey was conducted following court directions amid demands from Hindu organisations seeking full rights over worship at the premises. The ASI reportedly used ground-penetrating radar, carbon dating and archaeological excavation methods to examine the disputed site.
Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side, claimed that idols, pillars and temple-related symbols had been identified during the survey process. He argued before the court that the findings strengthen the claim that Bhojshala was originally a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi, also associated with Maa Saraswati.
The Muslim side, however, questioned parts of the report and maintained that the site has long functioned as the Kamal Maula Mosque. Representatives urged the court to ensure that communal harmony is maintained while considering the matter.
The Bhojshala complex has remained a sensitive religious and political issue for decades, with separate arrangements currently in place for Hindu and Muslim prayers on different days. The High Court is expected to continue hearing the matter in the coming weeks.