Bharuch: A controversy has surfaced over the historical identity of the Jama Masjid in Bharuch, with members of the Akhil Bharatiya Sant Samiti launching a protest alleging that the structure was originally an ancient Jain temple known as Samli Vihar.

A group of Sanatan saints on Monday began an indefinite hunger strike at the Shaktinath Mahadev Temple ground, claiming that the site is the birthplace of Chakradhar Swami and that attempts are being made to alter its original historical identity. The protesting saints have demanded that the monument be preserved strictly in its original form.

According to the Sant Samiti, the structure—located near the Bharuch Head Post Office—is a nationally protected monument owned by the Government of India and falls under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). They claimed that the monument has been under archaeological protection since 1904.

The saints alleged that illegal activities are being carried out on the premises in violation of heritage conservation norms and that efforts are underway to modify the structure and its appearance. They have demanded that such activities be stopped immediately and that any later additions or constructions be removed.

Saint Avichal Devacharya, who was present at the protest along with Swami Muktanand, Swami Raj Rajeshwariji Maharaj, and other saints and mahants, said the responsibility of protecting a national monument rests entirely with the ASI. He asserted that if any religious activity is being conducted at the site, it should be discontinued in accordance with heritage regulations, and the structure should be maintained solely as an archaeological monument.

The saints also appealed to the government and the ASI to strictly enforce existing rules to protect the site’s historical integrity. Calling upon the wider Sanatan Hindu community to support the movement, they said safeguarding national heritage is the responsibility of every citizen.

The Sant Samiti has warned that the agitation will continue indefinitely until their demands are addressed. With the issue drawing increasing attention, all eyes are now on the response of the state administration and the ASI in the coming days. DeshGujarat