Bhojshala Row: SC to Hear Muslim Side's Plea on Alternate Namaz Site
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court agreed to hear a plea from the Muslim side alleging that the alternate site provided by the Madhya Pradesh government for Friday namaz is too far from the disputed Bhojshala complex. The Court has sought the state's response on providing an adjacent site.
Background
The Bhojshala complex in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, is a disputed site claimed by both Hindus and Muslims. The Madhya Pradesh High Court declared it a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, which the Muslim side has appealed. The Supreme Court had earlier directed the state to provide an open space near the site for Friday prayers.
Key facts
The Supreme Court bench comprised Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana.
The Muslim side, represented by senior advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, claimed the alternate site is 2 km away, violating the Court's order for a nearby space.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the MP government, said the site is about 900 metres away and assured the Court he would personally examine the issue.
Justice Bagchi emphasized that the Court's earlier order 'has to be followed in letter and spirit.'
The Court listed the matter for hearing on Friday and directed the SG to seek instructions on providing an 'adjacent site' for namaz.
On July 14, 2026, the Court had directed the state to provide a separate open space adjacent to the disputed site for Friday namaz between 1 pm and 3 pm.
Prelims pointers
- Supreme Court bench: Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi, V Mohana
- Bhojshala complex: Dhar, Madhya Pradesh
- Dispute: Temple vs mosque claim
- Madhya Pradesh High Court judgment: Declared Bhojshala a temple of Goddess Saraswati
- Solicitor General: Tushar Mehta
- Senior advocate for Muslim side: Huzefa Ahmadi
Mains angles
- GS2 Polity: Role of Supreme Court in adjudicating religious disputes and ensuring compliance with its orders.
- GS2 Polity: Balance between religious freedom and public order in sensitive sites.
- GS1 History: Historical and cultural significance of Bhojshala complex.