Dhar, May 28: Members of Maulana Kamal Intezamia Committee have accused the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) of conducting unauthorized physical excavations at the Maulana Kamal Masjid-Bhojshala complex in Madhya Pradesh, despite a Supreme Court order prohibiting such activities.
Last Friday, Muslim worshippers held a silent protest by tying black bands on their hands to express their disapproval of the ASI’s actions, which they claim defy the court’s directive against altering the site’s character.
ASI officials, including Conservation Assistant Prashant Patankar of the Mandav Sub Circle and Additional Director General (ADG) Alok Tripathi, declined to comment on the allegations. “This matter is in the court, I cannot speak on this matter,” said Tripathi.
Dhar City Qazi Waqar Sadiq reported that deep pits have been dug on the mosque’s left side, violating the Supreme Court’s order. “We have complained several times by submitting memorandums, but no action has been taken yet,” Sadiq stated. The survey has been ongoing for 64 days.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court had previously ordered a comprehensive scientific investigation, including surveys and excavations, of the complex. Despite challenges to this order, the Supreme Court maintained that the monument, overseen by the central government, needed to be thoroughly examined.
Zulfiqar Pathan, head of the Maulana Kamal Intezamia Committee, accused the ASI of tampering with the mosque structure. “We have submitted a memorandum to the District Magistrate, addressed to the President of India and the Chief Justice of India, demanding an immediate halt to the physical excavation. The pits being dug by ASI are 6 to 9 feet deep, which could lead to water accumulation and potential damage during the rainy season,” Pathan explained. He added that further protests would ensue if their demands are not met.
The Maulana Kamal Masjid-Bhojshala, an 11th-century monument under ASI’s jurisdiction, has long been a point of contention between Hindu and Muslim communities. The ASI website refers to the site by both names, reflecting its disputed status. The current arrangement allows Hindus to worship every Tuesday and Muslims to offer prayers every Friday, as per an April 2003 ASI directive.
The ongoing excavations have intensified tensions, with both communities keenly observing the developments and awaiting judicial resolutions.
