VHP launches nationwide campaign to 'free' temples from government control

NEW DELHI: The Vishva Hindu Parishad on Thursday announced a nationwide "public awakening" campaign to "free" temples from govt control, with its organising general secretary Milind Parande calling for an end to "discriminatory practices" against the Hindu community.

"Despite India's independence, the tradition of govt control over Hindu temples continues, while churches and mosques remain free from such oversight," he said. Highlighting the scale of the issue, he said, "In 11 states alone, there are 20,000 to 50,000 temples under govt control. This is a huge challenge, and World Hindu Council firmly believes that Hindu temples should be managed by Hindu community itself."

The campaign will start with a grand gathering, being called 'Haindava Shankhaaraavam', in Andhra Pradesh's Vijayawada on Jan 5. Parande said, "More than 2,000 villages have been reached, and more than 2,00,000 people have registered for the programme. The enthusiasm is tremendous."

VHP has formed a think-tank, comprising Supreme Court lawyers, retired chief justices and revered seers, to draft a proposal for temple management. This draft will outline a decentralised structure, including state and district-level 'dharmic councils. "These councils will ensure the autonomous management of temples and the proper use of their resources for religious and social service," Parande said.


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