Context: Places of Worship Act 1991
Editorial argues that courts should avoid reopening historical religious claims and allow shared use of disputed religious sites, citing the Bhojshala–Kamal Maula dispute and concerns over dilution of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991.
Bhojshala–Kamal Maula Dispute
- Located in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh.
- Madhya Pradesh High Court held Bhojshala was originally a Hindu temple.
- Relied on archaeological evidence and Ayodhya judgment principles.
Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991
- Freezes religious character of places of worship as on 15 August 1947.
Section 3
- Prohibits conversion of religious character.
Section 4
- Bars fresh suits on religious character disputes.
Section 5
- Ayodhya dispute exempted.
Important Exception
- Ancient monuments protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 are exempt.
Editorial’s Concern
- Archaeological surveys and Public Interest Litigations may bypass the spirit of the 1991 Act.
- Could trigger disputes over Gyanvapi and Shahi Idgah sites.
