India-North Dhar: A large number of Muslims offered friday Namaz at Bhojshala-Kamal Moula Mosque on April 11 after the Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI) ordered its opening between 1 pm and 3 pm.

Altering its earlier order, the ASI on April 10 had said the Bhojshala be kept open on friday only between the specified period for Muslim community only and it should be closed for public viewing for the day.

The visitors are allowed into Bhojshala on payment of an entry fee of Rs one except on tuesdays, fridays and Basant Panchami day.

Ever since 1997 when the entry of Hindus into Bhojshala was restricted to just once a year on the occasion of Basant Panchmi following communal tension, Hindu outfits had been agitating against the government decision.

Bhojshala was ordered open on April 8 for Hindus after a gap of six years on an ASI order following discussion with the Madhya Pradesh government in this regard.

While Hindus have been allowed to perform pujas on tuesday and on Basant Panchami day, Muslims are allowed to offer namaz on friday.

The ASI has also ordered installation of a close circuit television in the Bhojshala complex to monitor the activities of the people.

PTI