Temple funds: Congress counters Opposition’s criticism with proof of past policy
Shimla, March 5,
The controversy over the alleged diversion of temple trust funds for government welfare schemes has ignited a heated political battle in Himachal Pradesh. The ruling Congress and the opposition rightist forces are locked in a war of words, each accusing the other of hypocrisy and political opportunism.
Leaders of the rightist forces, including former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and state party president Rajiv Bindal, have criticized the Congress government for redirecting temple donations toward state welfare programs. They argue that funds meant for religious purposes are being misused for government expenditure, which they claim violates the sanctity of Hindu religious institutions. Portraying this move as an attack on Hindu sentiments, they accused the Congress of exploiting temple resources to mask its financial mismanagement.
However, a recently surfaced government order from August 2018, issued during the rightist-led government in Himachal Pradesh, has shifted the spotlight back on them. The letter from the Department of Language, Art & Culture authorized the use of 15% of the income from Scheduled Temple Trusts for Gaushalas (cow shelters). This document reveals that it was the previous government under Jai Ram Thakur that introduced this provision, permitting temple trust funds to be allocated for welfare activities. Congress leaders have seized on this revelation, calling the criticism baseless and pointing out the apparent double standards of the opposition.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu defended his government’s position, clarifying that no new policy had been introduced and that the current practice was a continuation of what had already been implemented by the previous administration. He also criticized the central government for failing to release crucial funds needed by the state, especially after recent natural disasters caused extensive damage, requiring financial assistance of ₹9,500 crore. Sukhu accused the rightist forces of attempting to distract from the Centre’s neglect of Himachal Pradesh by creating controversy around temple funds.
As the political debate escalates, the issue of temple trust funds has become a focal point in the ongoing rivalry between the two parties. With both sides trading allegations, the matter remains a contentious and polarizing subject in the state’s political discourse.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
