MP: Authorities urge restraint ahead of Friday gathering at Bhojshala after HC verdict

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has ruled that the Bhojshala complex is a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, sparking a proposed Hindu gathering on Friday amidst calls for peace.

The Dhar district administration on Wednesday appealed for peace and strict adherence to court orders ahead of a proposed gathering by Hindus at the Bhojshala complex on Friday.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court on May 15 ruled that the disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque complex was a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, while simultaneously quashing a decades-old ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) order that allowed Muslims to offer Friday prayers at the site.

Before the HC verdict, Hindus could worship at the medieval-era monument only on Tuesdays. Following the court victory, Hindu organisations celebrated at the complex on Tuesday (May 19) and held ''mahasatyagraha'' and ''mahavijay mahotsav'' programmes, including prayers and fireworks.

The Bhoj Utsav Samiti has now called upon members of the Hindu community to assemble for a ''collective or akhand puja'' at the 11th-century Bhojshala complex on Friday, claiming it would mark the first such occasion in 721 years.

A peace committee meeting was held on Tuesday in the presence of Collector Rajiv Ranjan Meena and Superintendent of Police (SP) Sachin Sharma.

The officials reiterated that the high court's directions would be implemented ''in letter and spirit'' and appealed to citizens not to pay heed to rumours or provocative social media posts.

''We appeal to all citizens, visitors, religious leaders and media persons to maintain peace, brotherhood and the rule of law. The high court's order is binding on all of us and must be followed strictly,'' Sharma told reporters.

He said the authorities would ensure that no new religious activity or tradition, which had not been permitted earlier, was started at the site.

The SP said police are monitoring social media posts and warned of strict action against those spreading misleading or inflammatory content.

''We also appeal to people not to get influenced by such messages. The court's directions are very clear, and it is important for everyone to follow the rules,'' he said.

Meanwhile, Bhoj Utsav Samiti patron Ashok Jain said members of the Hindu community would gather at Dhan Mandi square in Dhar on Friday at noon and later proceed in a procession to Bhojshala for a ''maha aarti''.

''This Friday has come after 721 years and is linked to our self-respect. The entire Hindu community will offer prayers at Bhojshala,'' Jain said.

He claimed Hindus had faced restrictions and conflicts over worship at the site for decades, especially when Basant Panchami fell on a Friday.