Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator Rameshwar Sharma advised the Muslim community to act wisely and maintain harmony with Hindus at the Bhojshala temple in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. This statement came after the Supreme Court permitted both Hindu and Muslim worshippers to pray at the disputed site. Sharma emphasized the importance of allowing worship at the temple for peaceful coexistence.
Sharma, known for his strong Hindutva stance, mentioned that Hindus will continue to seek permission for Goddess Saraswati’s worship at the site. The Bhojshala Temple-Kamal Maula mosque complex has been a subject of contention between the two communities due to conflicting religious beliefs associated with it. Hindus revere it as a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, while Muslims consider it a mosque.
The disagreement intensified as Hindus celebrate Basant Panchami on the same day when Muslims gather for prayers at the site. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had arranged for Hindus to perform rituals on Tuesdays and Muslims to offer prayers on Fridays at the complex. Following the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, security has been heightened at the site with over 8,000 police personnel and Rapid Action Force (RAF) units deployed.
Dhar district administration, in preparation for Basant Panchami, aims to ensure law and order. The Collector emphasized the need for media outlets to report responsibly on the Supreme Court’s decision regarding religious prayers at the site. Any dissemination of content inciting religious animosity through various media platforms will face strict legal action under relevant laws.
