Madhya Pradesh High Court Declares Bhojshala a Temple Complex

The Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled that the Bhojshala complex in Dhar is a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, nullifying a 2003 order allowing Muslim prayers. The decision follows archaeological evidence suggesting the site's religious continuity as a Hindu temple since the Parmar dynasty era.

In a pivotal decision, the Madhya Pradesh High Court declared the Bhojshala complex in Dhar as a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, nullifying a 2003 Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) order allowing Muslims to offer Friday prayers. This decision underscores the site's historical role as a Hindu worship place.

The ruling highlighted the unbroken tradition of Hindu rituals at the 11th century monument, emphasizing its historical ties to King Bhoj of the Parmar dynasty. The court ruled after considering archaeological and historical evidence, ASI notifications, and a scientific survey conducted in 2024.

The decision dismissed four petitions from Muslims and Jains seeking exclusive worship rights, while two public interest litigations filed by the Hindu community were accepted, reinforcing the site's Hindu identity. The court also called for the ASI to supervise and manage the complex's administration.