Devotees gathered at the disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex in Dhar on Saturday morning and performed prayers and Hanuman Chalisa recitation following a significant ruling by the Madhya Pradesh High Court’s Indore bench. The development came after the court recognised the site as a Vagdevi (Goddess Saraswati) temple dating back to the era of Raja Bhoj and granted worship rights to the Hindu side.

Peaceful Atmosphere Maintained

According to officials, prayers and religious activities were conducted peacefully under tight security arrangements. Members of different committees and local devotees reached the premises early in the morning and offered flowers and prayers at the site. Authorities maintained close monitoring in and around the Bhojshala complex to ensure law and order remained under control.

Court Recognises Historical Link

The High Court observed that the structure was linked to the Bhoj-Parmar period based on historical records and evidence presented during proceedings. The ruling has become a major development in the long-running Bhojshala High Court verdict dispute, which has remained sensitive for years due to competing claims over religious rights at the site.

ASI Order Partially Set Aside

Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side, stated that the court partially quashed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) order issued on April 7, 2003. That order had allowed members of the Muslim community to offer namaz at the complex during a fixed period on Fridays.

ASI Retains Administrative Control

Legal representatives clarified that the Bhojshala premises will continue to remain a protected monument under the ASI as per existing laws. ASI counsel Aviral Vikas Khare stated that administration, regulation, and monitoring of the monument would continue to remain under the authority of the Archaeological Survey of India.

Devotees Offer Prayers

During the morning rituals, devotees offered prayers at the Vagdevi sanctum area and near the yajna kund. Several committee office-bearers and supporters participated in the religious activities. Those present included members associated with Bhoj Utsav Samiti and Bhojshala Mukti Yagya campaigns.

Hanuman Chalisa Recited

Groups of devotees also recited Hanuman Chalisa inside the premises after the court ruling. Religious chants echoed across the complex as supporters welcomed the decision. Visuals from the site showed devotees participating peacefully in worship activities amid heavy security deployment.

Devotees React to Verdict

Many visitors expressed happiness over what they described as unrestricted access to worship after several years. A representative associated with the Bhojshala Mukti movement stated that every part of the structure reflected characteristics of a temple and welcomed the High Court decision.

Muslim Side May Move Supreme Court

Following the ruling, discussions have intensified regarding possible legal action by the Muslim side in the Supreme Court. In anticipation of further legal proceedings, the Hindu side has reportedly filed two caveat petitions in the apex court related to the Bhojshala High Court verdict matter.

Demand for Idol’s Return Mentioned

Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain also stated that the court considered issues related to the original idol of Goddess Vagdevi, which is reportedly kept in a museum in London. The matter regarding return of the idol has remained part of broader discussions connected to the Bhojshala dispute.

Security Remains Tight

Police and administrative officials maintained strict surveillance throughout the day across Dhar city and the Bhojshala complex considering the sensitivity of the issue. Barricading and additional deployment of security personnel were arranged to prevent any untoward incident during the religious activities.

Historical and Legal Significance

The Bhojshala High Court verdict is being viewed as an important legal development in one of Madhya Pradesh’s long-standing religious and historical disputes. The ruling is expected to influence future proceedings related to worship rights, monument management, and interpretation of historical evidence connected to protected religious heritage sites in India.

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