Hindus, Muslims Offer Prayers at Disputed Bhojshala Complex Under Heavy Security

Hindus, Muslims Offer Prayers at Disputed Bhojshala Complex Under Heavy Security
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Both Hindu and Muslim worshippers offered their respective religious prayers on Friday, January 23, 2026 at the Bhojshala–Kamal Maula Mosque complex, a historically contested heritage site in Dhar district, The Times of India reported.

The day’s events coincided with Basant Panchami, a major Hindu festival, and Friday Jumma prayers for Muslims — occasions that fell on the same day this year. Following a directive from India’s Supreme Court to help avoid conflict, authorities organised separate timings and designated areas for each community’s worship.

Thousands of Hindus arrived early to perform the traditional Saraswati Puja, a ritual honoring the goddess of learning, from sunrise to sunset, while a smaller group of about 15–17 Muslims offered Jumma namaaz between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. through a separate entrance arranged by the district administration.

The site was secured by a large deployment of security personnel — more than 8,000 officers from police and paramilitary forces including CRPF, RAF and state units — supplemented with drone surveillance and CCTV monitoring to maintain peace and prevent any untoward incident.

Officials said both religious observances were completed peacefully and in compliance with the Supreme Court’s directions. The day’s orderly conduct was seen as a demonstration of administrative planning and cooperation between communities at a location that has seen long‑standing historical sensitivities.