Lead
The Madhya Pradesh High Court has ruled that the historic Kamal Maula mosque, built in the 14th century, is in fact a Hindu temple dedicated to a goddess. The decision, issued on Thursday, has drawn criticism from Muslim groups and heritage advocates who see it as a reversal of the building’s religious identity.
Background
The Kamal Maula complex, located in the town of Bhopal, has long been regarded as a significant example of medieval Islamic architecture in central India. The building’s history has been contested, with some scholars arguing that the site was originally a Hindu shrine before being converted into a mosque during the Delhi Sultanate period. The legal dispute began when a local Hindu community filed a petition claiming that the structure was a temple and should be protected as such.
What Happened
In its ruling, the court examined architectural features, historical records, and local traditions. It concluded that the building’s design elements—such as the presence of a sanctum, the orientation of the structure, and inscriptions—indicate a Hindu origin. The court ordered that the site be treated as a temple and directed authorities to remove any Islamic symbols that had been added over the centuries. The decision was announced on Thursday and has been met with protests from Muslim leaders who argue that the mosque has been a place of worship for generations.
