New Delhi: In a significant development, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has instructed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a thorough survey of the Bhojshala complex in Dhar district within six weeks. This medieval-era structure is a subject of contention between Hindus and Muslims regarding its ownership.
The court's decision follows extensive arguments presented by all involved parties, reinforcing the belief that the monument, which is under the jurisdiction of the Central government, requires clarification to dispel confusion. According to the court, the responsibility to unravel the mysteries and conflicting narratives surrounding the site falls upon the ASI as mandated by Section 16 of the Monument Act, 1958, rather than the court itself.
Highlighting the constitutional and statutory obligation of the ASI, the court emphasized the urgent need for a scientific survey of the site. Consequently, the agency has been directed to conduct a comprehensive investigation using modern methods such as GPR-GPS and carbon dating. Moreover, the ASI is tasked with examining not only the primary site but also the surrounding 50-meter area to ensure a thorough understanding of the complex's historical and archaeological significance.
The court specified that the survey should include detailed examinations of structures above and below ground level, including walls, pillars, floors, and the sanctum sanctorum. Additionally, the ASI is required to document its findings meticulously under the guidance of an expert committee comprising at least five senior officers, headed by the Director-General or Additional Director-General of the ASI.
In addition to photographic and videographic documentation of the survey, the ASI has been instructed to open and inventory all locked or sealed rooms within the complex, cataloging each artifact or deity discovered. The court further empowers the ASI committee to undertake any additional studies deemed necessary to uncover the true nature of the Bhojshala Temple cum Kamal Maula Mosque, ensuring the preservation of the site's original integrity throughout the process.
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