[ Deccanherald] VHP to launch nationwide campaign to free Hindu temples from govt control

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has announced a nationwide campaign to free Hindu temples from government control. The campaign, called “Haindava Shankhaaraavam,” is set to begin on January 5, 2025, in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. The VHP’s organizing general secretary, Milind Parande, emphasized that the campaign aims to end discriminatory practices against the Hindu community.

The VHP has formed a think tank comprising Supreme Court lawyers, retired chief justices, and revered seers to draft a proposal for temple management. The proposal includes the establishment of state and district-level dharmic councils to ensure the autonomous management of temples and proper use of their resources for religious and social services.

Parande highlighted that thousands of temples in 11 states are still under government control, a practice that began during British rule. The VHP believes that temples should be managed by the Hindu community itself. The campaign has already reached over 2,000 villages, with more than 200,000 people registering for the program.

The VHP also plans to remove non-Hindus employed in temples and ensure that only practicing Hindus are involved in temple worship and services. The organization aims to prevent politicians from being appointed to temple trust boards and management roles.

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Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/vhp-to-launch-nationwide-campaign-to-free-hindu-temples-from-govt-control-3332976