Structure built using parts of old temples, ASI makes major claim on Kamal Maula Mosque

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in its detailed report on the Bhojshala–Kamal Maula Mosque complex located in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, has claimed that the existing structure was constructed using remains of old temples. The findings are based on scientific examination, survey work, limited excavation, analysis of recovered remains, architectural style, inscriptions, art and sculpture studies. The nearly 2,000-page report submitted in 2024 to the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court states that the present structure appears to have been built in a later period and lacks uniformity in design and construction.

On Monday, a division bench comprising Justice Vijay Kumar Shukla and Justice Alok Awasthi, while hearing petitions related to the Bhojshala–Kamal Maula Mosque dispute, directed that the ASI report be made available to all parties. The court instructed the parties to file their objections, suggestions and responses within two weeks. The next hearing is scheduled for March 16.

Petitioner Ashish Goyal, State Vice President of Hindu Front for Justice, said that the ASI report indicates the entire structure belongs to the Paramara dynasty period and was constructed by King Bhoj and his predecessors. According to him, the structure is approximately 950 to 1,000 years old.

Another petitioner, Ashok Jain, stated that the petition was filed on the basis that if the site is proven to be a mosque, it should be handed over to the concerned side, and if proven to be a temple, rights should be granted to the Hindu side. He said all parties will now submit their responses as directed by the court.

The ASI report was prepared under the leadership of Additional Director General Alok Tripathi. A team of experts conducted a 98-day survey. The report suggests that the complex may originally have been a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.

During the survey, ASI recovered 94 idols and fragmented remains, many of which were found in damaged condition. The windows, pillars and beams used in the current structure contain carvings of four-armed deities. These include depictions of Ganesha, Brahma, Narasimha, Bhairava and other deities, as well as human and animal figures. Further clarity in the matter will emerge after the responses of all parties and the next court hearing.