How was Friday Namaz Conducted Peacefully at Bhojshala Complex?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Dhar, Jan 23 (NationPress) Following the interim order of the Supreme Court, members of the Muslim community conducted their Friday (Jumma) namaz at the contentious Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh, without any incidents.
The prayers, which lasted around 20 minutes, were held between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. as directed by the apex court on Thursday. Under strict security measures, the administration ensured the safe transport of Muslim representatives to the site.
They were conveyed in an armored vehicle to the complex, where designated separate areas were allocated for the namaz in accordance with the court's mandate for distinct spaces and designated entry/exit points for both communities.
After the completion of prayers, all participants were safely escorted back from the premises, as reported by police sources.
The Supreme Court's bench, which included Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice Vipul M. Pancholi, had allowed Hindu Saraswati Puja and rituals on Basant Panchami while limiting Muslim namaz to the specified two-hour timeframe.
The ruling underscored the importance of mutual respect, tolerance, and complete cooperation with local authorities to ensure peace at the 11th-century ASI-protected monument, recognized by Hindus as a Saraswati temple and by Muslims as the Kamal Maula Mosque.
The day witnessed a heavy presence of over 8,000 police and paramilitary personnel throughout Dhar, including high-ranking officers, female constables, Rapid Action Force units, and aerial surveillance with over 20 AI drones.
Thorough 3D mapping of the area allowed for continuous monitoring. This organized arrangement followed extensive legal proceedings, with the court acknowledging the Madhya Pradesh government's commitment to maintaining peace.
Hindu devotees began their elaborate Saraswati Puja early in the morning amid saffron decorations and floral tributes, while the Muslim community adhered to the time-sharing agreement. The successful observance of both religious activities without incident has been celebrated as a positive move towards coexistence at this sensitive site. Authorities remain vigilant, with the ongoing title dispute still awaiting resolution in the Madhya Pradesh High Court.