Introduction

India, a country with a population predominantly composed of Hindus (around 80%), has deep-rooted cultural and religious traditions. Temples, as significant spiritual and historical sites, have long been under the government's control. The question arises as to why temples remain under government administration despite calls for their liberation for over seven decades. This article explores the historical and contemporary reasons behind this phenomenon and emphasizes the need for change.

Historical Context

The British during their rule in India sought to govern Hindu temples for several key reasons:

To use them as sources of revenue. To control religious activities and prevent any form of dissent. To maintain a grip on cultural and social life of the Hindus.

Although India declared itself a secular state after independence, the tradition of government control over Hindu temples has continued. This is evident in the way many state governments manage temples, often for their own financial gain rather than the religious needs of the masses.

Contemporary Challenges

The quest to release temples from government control is not a new one. For over seven decades, observers and activists have been advocating for the emancipation of these sacred sites. However, the challenge lies in political and administrative hurdles.

Party Politics and Retention of Power: Party politics in India have often focused on vote-banks, leading to the rigging of elections and the manipulation of legislative and executive freedoms. Constitutional amendments have been made to favor party interests, despite being in conflict with the constitution itself.

The Current Movement

A recent attempt was made to introduce a bill for the release of temples from government control. On November 22, Dr. Satyapal Singh reintroduced the bill in the Lok Sabha, emphasizing the rights of all communities. The bill first appeared in 2017, but it had been pending for years. The key points of Dr. Satyapal Singh's bill include:

The need for equal rights for both majority and minority communities. A push for transparency in the funds collected in temples. The establishment of a single authority body to manage temple affairs. A clear focus on accountability and less self-interest in temple governance. A unified structure for managing all religious institutions.

Why It Is Hard to Release Temples from Government Control

The current challenges in releasing temples from government control can be attributed to several factors:

Revenue Generation for State Governments: State governments heavily rely on the income generated from temple taxes and donations. The fear of losing this revenue is a significant deterrent to reform.

Lack of Awareness Among Hindus: Many Hindus remain unaware of the issues surrounding temple control. There is a need for greater awareness and education to mobilize support for change.

Institutional Resistance: Powerful vested interests within the government and religious authorities resist change, often citing tradition and historical precedent.

Conclusion

The release of Hindu temples from government control is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. Addressing revenue concerns of state governments, increasing awareness among the Hindu populace, and fostering institutional support for reform are crucial steps. By working towards transparency and accountability, a unified structure for managing religious institutions, and equal rights for all communities, India can move closer to its constitutional ideals and fulfill the long-standing aspirations of its people.