Bhojshala Complex Row: SC Directs MP Govt to Provide Adjacent Site for Friday Namaz
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court intervened in the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex dispute, directing the Madhya Pradesh government to provide a nearby site for Friday prayers after the Muslim side objected to the distance of the alternate site. This order clarifies the court's earlier interim arrangement and aims to balance religious rights pending the final outcome of the case.
Background
The Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, is a disputed site claimed by both Hindus and Muslims. The Madhya Pradesh High Court had declared it a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, which is under challenge in the Supreme Court. The court had earlier ordered a temporary arrangement for Friday prayers, which the Muslim side found inadequate.
Key facts
The Supreme Court directed the Madhya Pradesh government to make arrangements for Friday namaz at Khasra No 596, adjacent to the disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex.
The court allowed Friday prayers between 1 pm and 3 pm at the identified site, which is Dargah land adjoining the disputed premises.
If the identified site is unsuitable, the state government and the Muslim community can mutually agree on another nearby location.
The Muslim side had objected that the earlier alternate site was about one kilometre away, not adjacent as intended by the court.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the court he would personally examine the issue after the Muslim side's objection.
The interim arrangement remains temporary and subject to the final outcome of pending appeals against the High Court's judgment declaring Bhojshala a temple.
The bench was headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant.
Prelims pointers
- Supreme Court of India
- Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex, Dhar, Madhya Pradesh
- Khasra No 596
- Friday namaz timing: 1 pm to 3 pm
- Solicitor General of India
- Madhya Pradesh High Court judgment on Bhojshala as temple
Mains angles
- GS2 Polity: Role of judiciary in mediating religious disputes and maintaining secularism.
- GS1 Society: Issues of religious freedom and inter-community harmony.
- GS2 Governance: Government's role in implementing court orders and balancing rights.