Hindus offer prayers as ASI continues survey at Kamal Maula mosque complex

Amid a High Court-ordered survey by the ASI at the Bhojshala/Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar district, Hindu devotees congregated to offer prayers today.

Under an ASI order dating back to April 7, 2003, Hindus are permitted to worship inside the Bhojshala complex every Tuesday, while Muslims have the same privilege on Fridays.

The recent proceedings were spurred by a directive from the Madhya Pradesh High Court on March 11, instructing the ASI to conduct a 'scientific survey' of the contentious site within six weeks. The Bhojshala complex, which holds historical and religious significance for both Hindus and Muslims, has been subject to a longstanding dispute.

Led by senior police and administrative officials, the ASI team commenced its survey on March 22, with Hindu devotees arriving early in the morning before the official proceedings began.

Balveer Singh, vice president of Bhoj Utsav Samiti, expressed optimism regarding the survey, stating, "This was the temple of Maa Saraswati, and it will be given to Hindus, and the issue will be resolved."

The complex, believed to have been established by Raja Bhoj in 1034 AD, has been at the center of contention, with Hindus asserting it as the temple of Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati), while the Muslim community recognizes it as the Kamal Maula Mosque. Hindu groups allege that a statue of Vagdevi was taken to London by the British in 1875.