Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex dispute: SC passes order for peaceful conduct of Basant Panchami & Friday Namaz

Bhoj Shala-Kamal Maula complex in Dhar in Madhya Pradesh, over which a dispute exists between the two communities regarding the religious character of the structure.

The Supreme Court on Thursday issued directions to ensure that the conduct of Basant Panchami poojas and the Friday Juma Namaz are both held peacefully in the Bhoj Shala-Kamal Maula complex in Dhar in Madhya Pradesh, over which a dispute exists between both the communities regarding the religious character of the structure.

A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi, was hearing an application by the Hindu Front for Justice seeking approval for day-long Basant Panchami rituals on January 23.

Bhojshala, an 11th-century monument under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India, is seen differently by Hindus and Muslims. Hindus regard it as a temple dedicated to Vagdevi (Goddess Saraswati), while Muslims identify it as the Kamal Maula Mosque. According to a 2003 agreement, Hindus conduct pujas on Tuesdays, and Muslims offer namaz on Fridays.

While appearing for the applicants, Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain submitted that there will be Pujas and havans from sunrise to sunset.

Senior Advocate Salman Khurshid, representing the mosque committee, stated that the Juma Namaz takes place from 1 PM to 3 PM, after which the Muslim community members will leave the premises. Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj, appearing for the Union and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), along with the Madhya Pradesh Advocate General, assured the court that law and order would be maintained.

Jain asked if the Namaz could be held after 5 PM, as the puja would continue uninterrupted throughout the day. Khurshid responded that this would be difficult since Juma Namaz has a fixed timing. The ASG suggested that the mosque committee provide the district administration with the expected number of attendees so a separate enclosure could be arranged, with passes issued for entry. Khurshid agreed and said the numbers would be submitted the same day.

In its order, the bench appealed to "both sides to observe mutual respect and cooperate with the state and district administration for maintenance of law and order."