Disputed Bhojshala Complex: ASI Survey Sparks Disagreement Amid Legal Battle

The Bhojshala Temple-Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Dhar has once again become the focal point of contention, as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) initiated a survey, sparking disagreement from Abdul Samad, the petitioner representing the Muslim side.

In a statement to ANI on Saturday, Samad expressed dissatisfaction with the court-directed survey, citing significant alterations in the complex since the previous assessment. He emphasized that a similar study had been conducted earlier, with its findings already in the public domain.

“We oppose this new survey as there have been noticeable changes and additions to the complex since the last assessment. We have raised concerns over these alterations,” Samad said, highlighting the petition’s contention against the recent developments in the monument.

Samad further revealed that they had escalated the matter to the Supreme Court, challenging the high court’s decision to commission a new survey and demanding a report submission by April 1. He criticized the recent survey conducted by the ASI, deeming it insignificant as the petitioner from the opposing side was absent during the assessment, contrary to court directives.

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“We consider yesterday’s survey to hold no relevance. The ASI should have notified us at least 24 hours prior if they intended to proceed with the survey in the absence of representatives from both sides,” Samad asserted, questioning the procedural integrity of the recent investigation.

On the other hand, Shreesh Dubey, representing the Hindu side, informed the media on Friday about the ongoing legal proceedings, stating that the survey had commenced as directed by the court, with the report set to be presented promptly.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court’s decision to permit the ASI survey at the disputed site has drawn attention from both Hindu and Muslim communities. Vishnu Shankar Jain, an advocate involved in the case, shared insights into the court’s order, emphasizing the importance of the ASI’s statutory duty in conducting such surveys.

“The court has mandated a comprehensive investigation by the ASI to ascertain the true nature of the Bhojshala Temple-Kamal Maula Mosque complex without altering its original essence. The right to worship at the disputed premises will be considered based on the findings of the expert committee,” Jain elucidated, underscoring the significance of the forthcoming report in resolving the longstanding dispute.

Meanwhile, Dhar Superintendent of Police Manoj Kumar Singh assured the public of adequate security arrangements to facilitate the survey process, emphasizing the court’s directive for cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful completion of the assessment.