Supreme Court Rejects Petition for Buddhist Control of Mahabodhi Temple

The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition requesting the transfer of the Mahabodhi Temple's control in Bodh Gaya to the Buddhist community. This move comes after a vacation bench, consisting of Justice MM Sundresh and Justice K Vinod Chandran, ruled that the plea was not maintainable under Article 32 of the Constitution.

The petitioner, Sulekhatai Nalinitai Narayanrao Kumbhare, argued that the 1949 Bodh Gaya Temple Act, which entrusts temple management to a committee overseen by the Bihar government and represents both Hindus and Buddhists, undermines Buddhist religious rights. The court advised her to seek recourse through the Patna High Court.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mahabodhi Temple holds considerable spiritual significance for Buddhists worldwide. The plea sought amendments to ensure the temple is managed exclusively by Buddhists, aligning with their faith and cultural traditions. The request was ultimately rejected by the apex court, which granted liberty to approach the High Court.

(With inputs from agencies.)