Appoint devotees in temples, not politicians seeking rehabilitation
Nagpur : The Mahayuti Government recently decided to extend the tenure of the trustees of Shri Siddhivinayak Temple in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, from 3 to 5 years, just ahead of the assembly elections. On December 16th, an amendment bill was introduced in the winter legislative session to formalize this change. However, the bill also proposes increasing the number of trustees from 9 to 16. With the Mahayuti Government holding a majority in both houses, the bill is expected to pass without opposition. If passed, this amendment will pave the way for adding 7 more trustees to the Shri Siddhivinayak Temple Management. However, this move raises a crucial question; Is this expansion genuinely a necessity for temple management, or is it a strategy to rehabilitate dissatisfied political leaders within the ruling party ? Temples are sacred institutions meant for devotion and spiritual upliftment, not platforms for political appeasement. If the Government’s intentions align with the latter, it is imperative for Hindus to voice their concerns and remind the authorities that temples are not venues for political rehabilitation. Ensuring that temples remain free from political interference is vital for preserving their sanctity and fulfilling their purpose. Hindus must remain vigilant and demand transparency in such decisions to uphold the sanctity of temple administration.
1. Rehabilitation of Political figures in non-cabinet roles
During the Congress rule, many temples in Maharashtra, including the renowned Siddhivinayak Temple, were brought under the Government control. This move appeared to be aimed at rehabilitating political allies, with individuals loyal to the Congress alliance being appointed as temple trustees. As opportunities for ministerial positions became limited, political figures were redirected to other roles, such as chairpersons of corporations, cooperatives, and health organizations. However, wherever politicians entered, the environment became plagued with party politics, internal disputes, and corruption. Now, the same pattern is being observed in temples, threatening their sanctity and religious essence. Temples are sacred spaces meant for worship and spirituality, not platforms for political manoeuvring. If this trend continues, the religiosity and sanctity of temples will erode. Unfortunately, the Congress, with its history of anti-Hindu actions, appears indifferent to this concern. Hindus, however, are aware of such deliberate moves and must remain vigilant to protect their cultural and spiritual heritage.
2. The current Government should set a positive example by appointing devout and knowledgeable religious individuals as trustees of temples
Hindus had high expectations that Government control of temples, introduced during the Congress rule, would be abolished when the BJP-Shiv Sena coalition Government came to power in Maharashtra. However, taking control of Shri Shanaishwar Temple in Nagar by the Government during this coalition’s tenure has been unexpected and disappointing for the Hindu community. Instances of improper practices in temples have come to light, such as in the Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur, highlighting the inefficacy of Government control. Instead of addressing these issues, Government-run temples often see an increase in chaotic affairs. The root of the problem lies in political interference, where trustee positions are often treated as political appointments rather than responsibilities of devotion and service. Currently, a tussle between political parties over key temple leadership positions has led to delays in appointments. Prominent temples such as the Western Maharashtra Devasthan Committee and Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Temple Committee in Pandharpur lack presidents in their trustee boards, directly reflecting the detrimental effects of political meddling. The pro-Hindu Mahayuti Government is expected to take a more proactive approach in improving temple management. To preserve the sanctity and efficient functioning of these sacred institutions, the current Government should set a precedence by ceasing the practice of appointing politicians as trustees. Instead, individuals with deep faith, devotion, and understanding of the respective Deity should be appointed. This will not only make the management of temples better but also ensure that they remain the centres of spirituality and cultural preservation, free from political chaos.
3. Devotees should be appointed to maintain the sanctity of temples
If politicians continue to be appointed as trustees of temples, it is not surprising that the status of these temples could eventually resemble that of the Government-run corporations. This possibility should concern the Hindu community, as neglecting it could deliver a significant blow to Hindu Dharma in the future. Temples, which are considered the spiritual powerhouses of Hindus, must remain sanctuaries of devotion and faith. However, politicizing temple management risks eroding their sanctity, transforming them into centres of political manoeuvring rather than spiritual havens. When politicians gain control over temple management, the consequences are far-reaching. The sanctity of the temples will degrade, and devotees who visit seeking spiritual solace and religious purity may be deprived of the Divine experience they seek. Temples hold a crucial role in preserving Hindu culture and faith, and maintaining their sanctity requires trustees who are not tied to political agendas but are deeply devoted to the Deity and the temple’s spiritual purpose. This is an issue that the Congress, known for its Hindu-averse policies, is unlikely to address. However, the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance, which claims to uphold Hindutva ideology, carries the responsibility of meeting the expectations of Hindus. Hindus expect this Government to prioritize the preservation of temple sanctity over political interests. The current Government should ensure that trustees are appointed based on devotion and their commitment to preserving the temple’s spiritual environment rather than their political affiliations. Fulfilling this expectation is not just in the interest of Hindu Dharma but also essential to maintain the trust and faith of millions of devotees. The Government must act decisively to uphold the sacredness of temples and avoid disappointing the Hindu community.
– Pritam Nachankar, Correspondent, Sanatan Prabhat, Nagpur (17.12.24)