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Muslim side to move SC against Bhojshala verdict as Hindu groups celebrate amid heavy security in Dhar
On May 15, 2026, the Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled that the Bhojshala site in Dhar is a Hindu temple, prompting Hindu celebrations and plans by Muslims to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court. Security was tight in Dhar, and both communities signaled further legal action and ongoing debates over the site's status.
Why It Matters
The ruling addresses a long-running and contentious religious dispute that could affect inter-communal relations and future legal battles over disputed sites in India.
Timeline
7 Events
Court proceedings context: number of petitions heard
May 15, 2026
The High Court verdict came after hearing five writ petitions and three intervention petitions.
Security deployment details announced
May 15, 2026
More than 1,200 security personnel, including RAF, SAF and QRF, were deployed in Dhar town and surrounding areas to secure the complex, with anti-riot vehicles and equipment, and ongoing dialogues between communities.
Muslim side cites their lawyers and critiques the process
May 15, 2026
Waqar Sadiq said the arguments were presented well by lawyers Salman Khurshid and Shobha Menon; Ashhar Ali Warsi asserted the court only considered ASI facts and expressed dissatisfaction, calling the decision constitutionally wrong as a civil matter.
Muslim side rejects land-for-mosque suggestion and references Ayodhya case
May 15, 2026
Dhar's Qazi Waqar Sadiq said the Muslim side would review the High Court's decision and may challenge it in the Supreme Court, rejecting the recommendation that the Muslim side be allotted alternate land for a mosque and noting the Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri mosque precedent.
Hindu celebrations and security measures around the Dhar site
May 15, 2026
Hindu community celebrated the High Court verdict that granted them complete worship rights, while strict security arrangements remained in place in Dhar and nearby areas. The district administration had already imposed preventive measures under Section 163 of the BNSS.
Muslim representatives say they will approach the Supreme Court to challenge the High Court verdict
May 15, 2026
Representatives of the Muslim community stated they would move the Supreme Court to challenge the Madhya Pradesh High Court order declaring the Bhojshala temple-Kamal Maula mosque site in Dhar as a Hindu temple dedicated to goddess Saraswati.
ASI 2003 order referenced by the court
April 7, 2003
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) issued an order allowing Hindus to worship at the complex on Tuesdays and Basant Panchami, while Muslims were permitted to offer prayers on Fridays.