The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has entered the seventh day of its survey at the contentious Bhojshala Complex in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar district. The survey, initiated on March 22 as per the High Court's directive, aims to explore the historical significance of the site which holds religious importance for both Hindus and Muslims.
For Hindus, the Bhojshala Complex is revered as a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati), while Muslims consider it the site of the Kamal Maula mosque. An arrangement dating back to 2003 allows Hindus to conduct puja at the complex every Tuesday and permits Muslims to offer namaz on Fridays.
As part of the ongoing survey, the ASI team has commenced excavation work within the Bhojshala complex. The survey employs modern technologies such as carbon dating, GPS, and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to gather data efficiently.
Ashish Goyal, representing the Hindu Front for Justice, expressed satisfaction with the ASI's systematic approach, stating that the survey aims to reinforce the Hindu community's claim over the Bhojshala Complex. He voiced optimism about a positive outcome from the survey, emphasising that it aligns with the court's directives.
In contrast, Abdul Samad, representing the Muslim side, expressed disagreement with the survey, citing a previous exercise and changes observed at the site since then. Samad highlighted concerns over alterations to the monument and voiced reservations regarding new activities within the complex.
Samad revealed that they have approached the Supreme Court challenging the High Court's decision to conduct a new survey and submit a report by April 1. The Madhya Pradesh High Court had earlier permitted the ASI survey and instructed the submission of a report within six weeks, with the next hearing scheduled for April 29.
The ongoing survey at the Bhojshala Complex underscores the complexities surrounding religious sites in India and the efforts to reconcile differing claims while preserving cultural heritage. The outcome of the ASI's investigation will likely play a crucial role in addressing the longstanding dispute over the site's ownership and usage rights.
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