Supreme Court Questions Government's Temple Takeover Plans

The Supreme Court on Monday posed critical questions to the temple management committee of the historic Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura. The court sought information on how many temple administrations across India have been taken over by state governments under various laws.

The inquiry arose during a hearing on a plea challenging the Uttar Pradesh government's ordinance that shifts control of the Banke Bihari Temple's administration to the state. Concerns have been raised over the state's authorization to use Rs 300 crore of temple funds for a redevelopment project, which is currently contested.

A key issue includes the use of temple funds for acquiring land, a proposal previously denied by the high court. The temple management committee argues that the ordinance is enacted with a mala fide intent, potentially undermining an ongoing PIL in Allahabad High Court regarding temple administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)