The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) is set to launch a significant nationwide initiative, the ‘Free Hindu Temples’ campaign, with the primary goal of liberating all Hindu temples from government control. This ambitious movement seeks to restore complete autonomy to these religious institutions across India.
During a press conference held in Kalaburagi on Sunday, Lingraj Appa, the VHP’s North Karnataka president, explicitly articulated the demand for Hindu temples to be freed from governmental interference and granted full self-governance.
Appa issued a stern warning, stating that the VHP intends to initiate a sweeping national movement. Its purpose is to compel all state governments to relinquish their control over temples, particularly those currently under ‘Muzrai’ administration, and transfer their management back to dedicated temple authorities and the devotees themselves.
Highlighting the scale of the issue, Mr. Lingraj Appa pointed out that approximately 35,000 Hindu temples nationwide are currently under government administration. He critically questioned why similar regulatory frameworks are not applied to religious institutions of other faiths, implying a selective approach.
Furthermore, Appa voiced strong disapproval of the State government’s decision to ban Sri Adrushya Kadasiddeshwar Swamy of Kaneri Mutt from entering Karnataka, following remarks deemed derogatory towards Lingayat seers. He argued that government intervention in the internal affairs of religious mutts could lead to unnecessary confusion and complications.
He asserted that any disagreements or disputes stemming from varying beliefs within a religious sect should ideally be resolved internally by the respective religious leaders. He firmly stated that political intrusion into such sensitive religious matters is entirely unacceptable.
In conclusion, Mr. Lingraj Appa formally called upon the State government to immediately revoke the entry ban imposed on Sri Kadasiddeshwar Swamy.