Supreme Court allows puja in Bhojshala until 12 pm, namaz to follow; worship may resume after prayers

What happened:

The Supreme Court has set a time-sharing arrangement for Bhojshala in Dhar, allowing Hindu devotees to perform puja until 12 pm, followed by Muslim prayers.

● Why it matters now:

The decision comes amid rising tensions and a petition seeking an uninterrupted, day-long akhand puja on Basant Panchami.

● What changes for people:

Security restrictions, movement curbs, and a strict no-fly zone are now in force across the 300-metre radius of the complex.

● Who is affected:

Devotees from both communities, local residents, temple–mosque committees, and administrative agencies.

The Supreme Court on Thursday directed that Hindu devotees may conduct puja at Bhojshala in Dhar district until 12 pm, after which the premises will be handed over to the Muslim community for namaz. The bench clarified that Hindu worship may resume at 4 pm, ensuring both communities get their scheduled access.

The order was passed while hearing a petition demanding akhand puja at the complex on 23 January, coinciding with Basant Panchami. The court declined uninterrupted worship but permitted extended slots with coordinated timings.

Security tightened around the heritage site

Authorities have declared a 300-metre no-fly zone around Bhojshala and deployed 8,000 police personnel, citing crowd management and communal sensitivity. Entry and movement will be monitored throughout the day.

Officials said the objective is to maintain peace while ensuring compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives.

Why the case reached the Supreme Court

The Hindu side had urged the court to allow a full-day ritual, citing tradition and festival significance. The Muslim side argued that their Friday-adjacent namaz rights must not be disrupted. The court opted for a balanced arrangement, stressing cooperation between both groups.