SC Allows Hindu Prayers At Dhar Bhojshala On Basant Panchami
The Supreme Court has allowed Hindus to offer prayers at the Bhojshala complex in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, on the occasion of Basant Panchami. The permission was granted after considering the festival’s significance and existing arrangements at the disputed site.
Court’s Direction
The court clarified that the permission for Hindu prayers on Basant Panchami will be subject to strict adherence to law and order. It directed the Madhya Pradesh administration to ensure that the religious observance is conducted peacefully and without disturbing public order. The ruling does not alter the long-term status or ownership claims related to the Bhojshala site.
Background Of The Dispute
The Bhojshala complex has been a subject of dispute for decades, with Hindus identifying it as a Saraswati temple and Muslims using it as the Kamal Maula Mosque. Traditionally, Hindus are allowed prayers on specific days, while Muslims offer namaz on Fridays, under administrative arrangements.
What Comes Next
State authorities have been instructed to make necessary security and logistical arrangements for Basant Panchami. The court has emphasised that the order is limited to the festival and should not be treated as a precedent in the larger legal dispute.
