VHP Demands Temple Control in Himachal Pradesh

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has called on the Himachal Pradesh government to relinquish administrative control of temples to Hindu communities, alleging religious inequality. Speaking at a press conference, Milind Parande, VHP's central organization general secretary, argued that temples are unlike other religious sites, which are managed by their respective communities.

Parande emphasized that temple income, which reportedly exceeds hundreds of crores annually, should be reserved for religious and cultural efforts rather than administrative costs. He revealed that the 37 temples in question accumulated Rs 200.59 crore in revenue in 2024, along with substantial reserves of gold and silver.

The VHP has also voiced concerns over alleged illegal land encroachments and religious conversions in the state. They warn that failure to address these issues could result in a major public awareness campaign by the organization.

(With inputs from agencies.)