Renowned archaeologist K K Muhammed has stirred controversy by asserting that the Bhojshala/Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar district was originally a Saraswati temple before being converted into an Islamic place of worship.
Muhammed emphasized the importance of abiding by the court's decision and respecting the Places of Worship Act 1991, urging Hindus and Muslims to reconcile their differences over such disputed sites.
According to Muhammed, Hindus and Muslims should adhere to the legal framework established by the Places of Worship Act 1991, which designates the status of religious sites based on their condition in 1947. He maintained that if the Bhojshala complex was a temple in 1947, it should be considered as such, and if it was a mosque, it should be recognized as such.
Muhammed's statements come amid ongoing surveys conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at the Bhojshala complex, following directives from the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The complex, revered by Hindus as a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati) and by Muslims as the Kamal Maula Mosque, has been a subject of contention for years.
Having been part of the first excavation team at Ayodhya in 1976-77, Muhammed is no stranger to contentious archaeological sites. He emphasized the need for both communities to respect the court's decision and avoid actions that could escalate tensions.
Muhammed also underscored the significance of Mathura and Kashi for Hindus, likening them to the sacred sites of Mecca and Madinah for Muslims. He urged Muslims to understand the sentiments of Hindus regarding these sites and suggested that mosques associated with Prophet Mohammed or 'aulias' could be relocated if necessary.
In Muhammed's view, dialogue and cooperation between the two communities are essential to resolving such disputes. He cautioned against the escalation of tensions and urged both Hindus and Muslims to work towards strengthening the country together.
The statements made by Muhammed have reignited debates surrounding religious sites and underscored the importance of legal frameworks and dialogue in resolving long standing disputes. As the surveys at the Bhojshala complex continue, the hope remains for an amicable resolution that respects the sentiments of all parties involved.
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