A fresh controversy has emerged at Madhya Pradesh’s disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex in Dhar after allegations surfaced that a “dummy namaz” was staged, even as the administration hailed the day as a rare example of peaceful, simultaneous prayers by Hindus and Muslims.
The issue arose after local resident Imran Khan released a video claiming that the district administration orchestrated a symbolic or “dummy” prayer to show compliance with a recent Supreme Court order. He alleged that local Muslims, including himself, were escorted by police on Thursday night and promised safe access to the ASI-protected complex for Friday prayers between 1 pm and 3 pm. However, Khan claimed they were later told to return home and were not allowed to enter the complex.
According to him, the administration later projected that namaz had taken place, even though, he said, the people shown were not from the local community. Residents of Gulmohar Colony also alleged that they were detained at the Kamal Maula Mosque for several hours and were prevented from offering prayers at the disputed site.
The district administration has strongly denied these claims. Officials said that 15 to 17 Muslim men were escorted in a protected vehicle and allowed to offer namaz peacefully at a designated exclusive spot inside the complex, strictly in line with the Supreme Court’s January 22 order. The order allows Hindu prayers from sunrise to sunset and Muslim prayers between 1 pm and 3 pm at a separate location.
Dhar Collector Priyank Mishra declined to comment on specific allegations, stating only that symbolic namaz was offered with community consent and in full compliance with court directions.
Adding to the confusion, a separate video on social media showed individuals wearing yellow volunteer jackets preparing for prayers, raising questions about whether they were local worshippers or volunteers.
The day passed without violence, despite heavy security and large Hindu processions for Basant Panchami. While officials praised the peaceful outcome, the conflicting accounts have kept tensions simmering, leaving questions over what exactly happened inside the complex.
