Bhopal, Jan 23: Saraswati Puja was performed on Friday at the Bhojshala Temple–Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Madhya Pradesh under strict security arrangements, following directives from the Supreme Court of India. Hindu prayers were permitted from sunrise to sunset on Basant Panchami, while Muslim congregational prayers are scheduled between 1 pm and 3 pm.
The complex is one of central India’s most sensitive religious sites, with both Hindu and Muslim communities holding claims. Historically, deviations from regulated timings have led to tensions, making careful management critical.
From early morning, devotees gathered to offer prayers to Goddess Saraswati. Later, Muslim worshippers are expected to participate in namaz within the allotted window. Authorities deployed layered security, including police and Rapid Action Force units, to ensure that the two groups could pray peacefully without interference.
Supreme Court directives and security arrangements
The top court’s decision came after the Madhya Pradesh government assured that law and order could be maintained. Over 8,000 personnel were deployed in the area to implement the plan. Dhar Collector Priyank Mishra confirmed that the administration’s priority is maintaining peace and warned that any attempts to incite religious tension, including through social media or publications, would attract strict legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and IT Act.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) continues to oversee the heritage site. Since 2003, ASI guidelines have regulated worship, allowing Hindus to conduct puja on Tuesdays and Muslims to hold Friday prayers, a system designed to prevent clashes.
Political responses and ongoing dispute
BJP leader and former MP Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur described the Supreme Court’s ruling as temporary. “This is an interim step,” she said, stressing that long-term arrangements must ensure both communities can continue their religious practices. She also highlighted unresolved claims over the Saraswati garden within the complex.
The Supreme Court directed that all parties receive copies of a scientific ASI survey detailing the structure and history of the monument, which may influence future legal proceedings.
For now, prayers continue peacefully under the court’s schedule, while the broader dispute over the site remains unresolved.