Supreme Court rejects ‘scientific inquiry’ into Bhojesala complex in Madhya Pradesh

Bhojshala is an 11th century monument protected by the Archaeological Survey of India

Bhopal:

The Supreme Court on Monday refused to stay the “scientific investigation” into the Bhojsala complex, a medieval structure claimed by both Hindus and Muslims in Madhya Pradesh’s Dhar district, but said that without the Supreme Court permission, no action should be taken. Results of the ASI survey.

Hindus believe Bhojshala, an 11th-century monument protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is a temple dedicated to Wagdevi (goddess Saraswati), while the Muslim community calls it Kamal Mullah mosque.

As per the arrangements made by the ASI on April 7, 2003, Hindus worship at the Bhojshala premises every Tuesday while Muslims worship at the complex every Friday.

A bench of Justices Hrishikesh Roy and PK Mishra issued notice to the Centre, Madhya Pradesh government, ASI and other agencies on a plea filed by Maulana Kamaluddin Welfare Society challenging the MP High Court’s March 11 order regarding scientific inquiry.

“The notice given can be returned within four weeks. During this period, no action can be taken against the findings ordered to be challenged without the leave of this court.

“It is clear that no physical excavation should be carried out that would alter the character of the site in question,” the judge said.

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