Issue of appointing temple-priest by Govt. at Shri Mahalakshmi Mandir, Kolhapur

Unnecessary interference by Govt. in appointment of temple-priest when it has kept pending cases of corruption in temple management for 4 years : HJS

Kolhapur : Shri Mahalakshmi Mandir is a seat of worship of devotees and every year, millions of devotees visit this temple. This temple is managed by Maharashtra Government’s ‘Pashchim Maharashtra Devasthan Samiti (PMDS)’. Unfortunately, PMDS is caught in number of cases of irregularities observed in managing temples under its control and action committee fighting against malpractices exposed in managing this temple, HJS, Hindu Vidhidnya Parishad and other pro-Hindu organizations have been giving legal fight for last 4 years;  demanding action against the guilty. A special team of State CID has been appointed to conduct inquiry into the corruption matters as a result of the fight given by the above pro-Hindu organizations; however, no action has been taken against the guilty even after 3 years.   The State Government has not taken any stand in this matter; still it took a decision to appoint a priest on payment of salary and news has now been published about making such appointment before 4th July. Temples are foundation stones of Hindu Dharma and the rituals performed in the temple should be as per the ‘Dharma-shastra’. Guidance is taken from experts in respective fields whenever any important decision is taken. Similarly, scholars of Hindu Dharma such as Shankaracharya, Dharmacharya, Kashi Vidwatpeetha etc should be consulted before taking decision on appointment of priest, is the demand made by Shri. Sunil Ghanavat, Convener of HJS for Maharashtra State, through a press release.

Govt’s procrastination in taking action to stop misappropriation and corrupt practices of PMDS !

It has been stated in the press release that PMDS has committed a sin of building toilet in place of ‘Manikarnika Kunda’ in the premises of this ancient temple. No action was taken to remove the toilet despite several representations submitted for the same. Finally, Shiv Sainiks led by MLA Rajesh Kshirsagar demolished it. Why is so much time taken to open this ‘Kunda’ and ‘Kashi-Kunda’ for devotees ? Why is there delay in taking action against malpractices in managing temples by PMDS ? On the other hand, conspiracy is being hatched to bring Shri Mahalakshmi Temple out of the purview of PMDS for financial gains. The Government is taking decision of appointing temple-priest only to divert devotees’ attention from the pending issues. In fact, it is the duty of the Government to preserve religious customs and traditions. HJS has given warning to the State Government through the press release that it should take prompt action for eradication of corruption and malpractices of PMDS and respect religious sentiments of Hindus before taking any decisions; else intense agitations would be staged.