ASI Allows Unrestricted Hindu Worship At Bhojshala After HC Verdict

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has issued directions granting the Hindu community unrestricted access for worship at the Bhojshala complex in Madhya Pradesh’s Dhar district, a day after a significant ruling by the Madhya Pradesh High Court declaring the site as a Saraswati temple.

According to an official statement, the move follows the High Court’s order delivered on Friday, which also quashed an ASI notification dated April 7, 2003 . That earlier directive had permitted members of the Muslim community to offer Friday prayers at the same complex, leading to a long-standing arrangement governing shared usage of the site.

The High Court, in its observation, held that the Bhojshala complex was historically a centre of learning for Sanskrit language, grammar and literature , and described it as a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati) . Based on this interpretation, the court concluded that the site’s character aligns with its association with Hindu worship traditions.

Following the judgment, the ASI official said the Hindu community “shall have unrestricted access in connection with the ancient practice of learning and worship of Goddess Saraswati.” The order effectively changes the regulated access framework that had been in place for over two decades under ASI supervision.

The Bhojshala complex , a protected monument under the ASI, has been at the centre of a sensitive legal and cultural dispute regarding its historical and religious identity. The latest development marks a significant shift in the administration of religious access at the site, aligning it with the High Court’s interpretation of its heritage status.

Authorities are expected to oversee arrangements on the ground to ensure compliance with the court’s directive and maintain order at the protected monument, which continues to draw both worshippers and visitors due to its historical significance.