High Court’s historic decision on Dhar Bhojshala controversy: Premises considered Hindu temple, Namaz banned; ASI report approved!

By Samira Vishwas On May 15, 2026

edge. The High Court has given an important decision in the Bhojshala Temple-Kamal Maula Masjid dispute case. According to the Hindu side, the court has recognized the entire Bhojshala complex as a Hindu temple. Rejecting the petitions of Jain community and Muslim side, the court has given this decision on the basis of the report of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

After the decision, security arrangements have been made very tight in Dhar. Considering the entire area as sensitive, the administration has deployed about 1200 policemen. Police forces including STF have been deployed in various parts of the city and surveillance is being maintained at every nook and corner. The administration is on high alert.

Decision based on ASI report-
Earlier, ASI had presented a detailed report of 2100 pages in the court, which the court considered important. The report included details of a 98-day survey, citing the discovery of numerous historical remains, sculptures and structural evidence.

According to the report, 188 pillars were found in the complex, of which 106 were vertical and 82 were horizontal pillars. Their structure was said to be related to temple architecture. It was also said that many pillars and statues were later damaged and used in other constructions.

Reaction of Hindu side-
Hindu side’s lawyer Vishnu Shankar Jain said that the court has partially canceled the ASI order of April 7, 2003 and has given the Hindu side the right to worship, considering the premises as the property of Raja Bhoj.

He also said that the court has directed the government to consider bringing back the statues in question, which are in the London Museum. Besides, instructions have also been given to consider giving alternative accommodation to the Muslim side.

In view of the tension in the area after the decision, the administration is continuously monitoring the situation and additional security forces have been deployed.