Gujarat High Court examines claim that Bharuch mosque is a Jain temple

The Gujarat High Court has directed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and central authorities to respond to a petition claiming that the historic Jami Masjid in Bharuch is actually a Jain temple.

Petitioners, identifying as members of the Jain community, seek a legal declaration that the monument is ‘Ashvabodh Tirth and Shakunika Vihar’ rather than a mosque. They argue that the structure’s identification in the 1909 Gazette was erroneous and cite architectural features and ancient Jain literature to support their claim. A central component of the plea involves the reported discovery of an idol of Lord Mallinath in the building’s basement, which petitioners seek to have protected from potential damage.

The petitioners have requested interim directions for the preservation of the monument and the idol, alleging that certain pillars and artifacts have been targeted. While the court noted that petitioners should typically approach relevant authorities first, it acknowledged the ASI’s statutory duty to protect the structure. The court has requested detailed instructions from the respondents and scheduled the next hearing for October 13.