The Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled on May 15, 2026, that the disputed Bhojshala site in Dhar district is a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. The court advised the Muslim community to seek separate land from the state government for building a mosque.
The case involved conflicting claims about the nature of the Bhojshala complex, which is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Hindus believe it is a temple for Vagdevi (Goddess Saraswati), while Muslims refer to it as Kamal Maula Mosque. A Jain petitioner argues it was a medieval Jain temple and gurukul.
In 2003, after a controversy erupted, the ASI allowed Hindus to worship there every Tuesday and Muslims to offer prayers on Fridays. Hindus later challenged this in court, seeking exclusive access.
The High Court conducted hearings starting April 6, 2024, involving five petitions and one appeal. After reviewing historical claims, legal issues, and thousands of documents, the bench reserved its decision on May 12.
Petitioners from Hindu, Muslim, and Jain communities argued for exclusive worship rights. The ASI’s detailed report concluded that the structure predates the mosque and was built using repurposed temple components. Hindus presented evidence like coins and sculptures to support their claim.
Muslims countered that the ASI report was biased. However, the ASI stated its survey included Muslim experts. The court ordered the ASI to conduct the survey on March 11, 2024, with results submitted July 15 of that year.