Bhojshala case: Key Hindu Petitioner approaches Supreme Court post Indore HC ruling
Dhar, May 15
Hours after the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court declared the Bhojshala complex in Dhar a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi and quashed the 2003 arrangement allowing alternate-day namaz, a key litigant on the Hindu side has approached the Supreme Court seeking to be heard before any orders are passed on the verdict.
Key litigant, Jitendra Singh Vishen -- who is also a petitioner before the Madhya Pradesh High Court in the Dhar Bhojshala disput, filed a petition be heard before the top court passes any order on the High Court's decision declaring the disputed archaeological site a temple.
Earlier today, the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court delivered a historic verdict, granting the Hindu side the right to worship and recognising the complex as belonging to Raja Bhoj.
Addressing media personnel after the court's order, Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side, termed the judgment as "historic," noting that the court has partially set aside the Archaeological Survey of India's (ASI) order dated April 7, 2003.
"The Indore High Court has delivered a historic verdict, partially setting aside the ASI's order dated April 7, 2003. Furthermore, the Court has granted the Hindu side the right to worship and has recognised the Bhojshala complex as belonging to Raja Bhoj," Jain said.
The advocate further revealed that the court addressed the demand for the repatriation of the idol, which is currently housed in a museum in London.
"Regarding our demand for the repatriation of the idol currently housed in a London museum, the Court has directed the government to consider this request; the Court also noted that the Muslim side is free to present its views before the government as well. Additionally, the Court has asked the government to consider allocating alternative land to the Muslim side," he said.
In an effort to provide a resolution for the other party, Jain said that the court has suggested the allocation of alternate land for the Muslim side.
"The Court has granted us the right to perform worship rituals and has directed the government to oversee the management of the site. The ASI's previous order, which granted the right to offer Namaz (prayers), has been completely set aside; henceforth, only Hindu worship shall take place there," he added.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who visited Bhojshala a few years back, I found the mix of cultures fascinating, but legal clarity is important. The alternate-day arrangement was always a bit awkward. Hope both communities can now move forward peacefully with the court's suggestion for alternative space.
Historical justice being served! Raja Bhoj's legacy deserves respect. But I hope the government acts fast on the alternative land offer—Muslim brothers shouldn't feel sidelined. The beauty of India is we've always found a middle ground. Let's preserve that spirit as this moves to SC. ✌️
The repatriation of the idol from London is a huge win if it happens! But I'm slightly worried about the reaction at the SC level. The Hindu petitioner approaching the top court is smart—better to hear everyone than end up with a last-minute stay. Slow and steady wins the race, yaar.
Respectful criticism: While I appreciate the court's ruling on historical grounds, I wish the process had been more inclusive of Muslim voices. The alternative land suggestion is good, but was it properly discussed beforehand? The Supreme Court hearing should ensure both sides are fully heard.
This is a landmark verdict! The 2003 ASI order was never based on proper evidence. But the real test is how both communities react on the ground. Dhar has a long history—let's not let politics ruin what should be a celebration of heritage. 🙏 Also, going to SC shows the petitioner is serious about due process.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.