Vishwa Hindu Parishad to Launch Nationwide Campaign for Temple Freedom from Government Control on January 5 

New Delhi, December 26, 2024:The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has announced a nationwide awareness campaign to free Hindu temples from government control. Addressing a press conference, VHP’s General Secretary, Shri Milind Parande, stated that state governments must immediately relinquish control over temple administration, management, and daily operations as it reflects discriminatory practices against Hindus. 

The campaign, set to commence on January 5, will be launched with a grand gathering, “Haindava Shankharavam,” in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, where millions are expected to participate under the guidance of revered saints and Hindu leaders. 

Shri Parande highlighted that despite India’s independence, governments continue to control temples, ignoring constitutional provisions under Articles 12, 25, and 26. He pointed out that while mosques and churches are exempt from such interference, Hindu temples face continued restrictions, even in defiance of various High Court and Supreme Court rulings. 

Key Initiatives of the Campaign
 
1. Handing Over Temple Management to Hindus: 
   VHP has formed a think tank comprising retired judges, prominent lawyers, religious leaders, and VHP activists to prepare a framework for temple management and dispute resolution. 

2. Formation of Religious Councils: 
   A state-level religious council involving retired judges, religious scholars, and community leaders will oversee temple management and elect trustees at the district level. This council will ensure inclusivity, with representation from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and diverse social groups. 

3. Safeguards for Temple Properties: 
   The campaign will focus on protecting temple assets and ensuring that their income is utilized solely for religious and social purposes, avoiding any diversion for government projects. 

Immediate Demands 

– Removal of all non-Hindu staff from temple and endowment departments. 
– Appointment of only devout Hindus for temple worship and services. 
– Exclusion of politicians or individuals affiliated with political parties from temple trusts and management. 
– Allocation of temple premises for Hindu-owned shops and removal of illegal constructions by non-Hindus on temple lands. 
– Use of temple revenue exclusively for Hindu religious and community welfare activities. 

Earlier, on September 30, VHP submitted memoranda to governors across all states, urging their governments to withdraw from temple management. The organization has also shared a draft proposal for temple freedom with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and other state governments for consideration. 

This nationwide campaign aims to empower the Hindu community to reclaim temple management, ensuring their assets and operations serve religious and social welfare goals under a framework led by qualified and dedicated Hindus.

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