"Arrangements to be made as per law, after talks with all parties and understanding order": Dhar collector after SC's hearing on Bhoj Shala-Kamal Maula issue
Dhar, January 22
Following the Supreme Court's hearing regarding the Bhoj Shala-Kamal Maula Complex in Dhar, District Collector Priyank Mishra on Thursday said that any arrangements related to the Bhoj Shala complex would be made in accordance with the law only after a detailed understanding of the Court's order and consultations with all concerned parties.
The Collector also appealed to the media and the public not to interpret the court's order on their own, stressing that the administration would first formally receive the complete order and study it carefully before taking any further steps.
"I request the media and the public not to interpret the court's order according to their own understanding. Let us receive the court's order. We will discuss it with the state government and our addressee in the court to find out the true sense and act accordingly. Yesterday, as well, I appealed not to make any interpretation about the hearing. After receiving the court's order, we will officially reveal our further steps," the Collector told reporters here.
He further added, "There were many things highlighted during the hearing; it also mentions different places and different routes. That is why I am saying not to make any interpretation, wait for the order. The further arrangements will be made in accordance with the law only after sitting with all parties and understanding the order."
There is a disputed site, the Bhoj Shala complex, situated in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar district. For Hindus, the Bhoj Shala complex is a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati), while for Muslims, it is the site of the Kamal Maula mosque. According to an arrangement in 2003, Hindus perform puja at the complex on Tuesdays from sunrise to sunset, while Muslims offer namaz on Fridays from 1 pm to 3 pm.
As Basant Panchami (Saraswati Puja) falls on a Friday this year, the coinciding occasion prompted the administration to put the district on alert mode to ensure that both communities can follow their respective traditions peacefully and maintain communal harmony.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is a sensitive issue. The 2003 arrangement has worked for years. Why create tension now? Basant Panchami is a day of celebration for students. I hope the administration ensures a peaceful day for everyone, especially with it falling on a Friday.
Finally, a government official speaking sense! The media trial and social media experts interpreting court hearings cause more harm than good. Let the institutions do their job. The Collector's appeal is spot on.
As someone who has visited Dhar, the historical significance of the site is immense for both communities. The cautious approach is necessary, but I hope the consultations are genuinely inclusive and not just a formality.
The core issue is our history. Bhoj Shala is an ancient seat of learning and Saraswati temple. While we must follow the law, the truth of its origins cannot be ignored. Hope the SC order brings a permanent, respectful solution.
Communal harmony is paramount. The administration is right to be on alert. We are Indians first. Let's not allow politicians or sensational media to divide us over places of worship. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
Respectfully, the statement feels like kicking the can
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