High Court Orders ASI to Make Bhojshala Survey Videography Accessible

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to upload videographic records of its survey of the Bhojshala complex, where a dispute exists over its religious identity. The court ordered this for transparency in the ongoing legal proceedings involving claims by Hindu and Muslim communities.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has instructed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to upload videos from a survey of the Bhojshala complex, aiming to provide the footage to those involved in the legal proceedings. Several entities claim the complex as a religious site, creating an impasse over its identity.

Hindus view the site as a temple dedicated to Vagdevi, while Muslims see it as the Kamal Maula mosque. The High Court's decision comes amid ongoing petitions, in which senior advocate Salman Khurshid has argued for transparency and access to the survey videography.

Opposing the plea, ASI's counsel cited the extensive duration of the videography process. However, the High Court overruled this objection and mandated the material's availability by April 27. The ongoing dispute remains contentious, as historical records and legal interpretations weigh heavily on the outcome.