Why Is the Alternate Namaz Site So Far? SC Wants MP Govt to Explain in Bhojshala Row

The Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to hear a fresh plea filed by the Muslim side in the long-running Bhojshala dispute, after concerns were raised over the location of an alternate site identified by the Madhya Pradesh government for offering Friday namaz.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, fixed the matter for hearing on Friday and directed Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to obtain instructions from the state government on whether an alternate prayer site could be provided adjacent to the disputed Bhojshala complex in Dhar.

Appearing for the Muslim side, Senior Advocate Huzefa Ahmadi argued that the court had earlier instructed the state to arrange an open space near the disputed complex for Friday prayers. However, he submitted that the site identified by the authorities was located around 2 kilometres away, making it difficult for worshippers and resulting in the community missing Friday prayers.

Representing the Madhya Pradesh government, Mehta informed the bench that the alternate location was approximately 900 metres from the disputed complex. He assured the court that he would personally examine the issue and take corrective measures if necessary.

Justice Bagchi observed that the Supreme Court's earlier directions must be implemented " in letter and spirit," stressing the importance of adhering to the court's order.

The bench subsequently directed the Solicitor General to seek detailed instructions from the state government on the possibility of providing a prayer site immediately adjacent to the disputed premises before the next hearing.

The latest proceedings stem from the Supreme Court's July 14 interim order, passed while hearing appeals against the Madhya Pradesh High Court's ruling declaring the disputed Bhojshala complex to be a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. Pending a final decision in the case, the apex court had directed the state to provide a separate open space near the complex where Friday namaz could be offered between 1 pm and 3 pm.