In a significant move to safeguard temple properties, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured a delegation from the Maharashtra Mandir Mahasangh of the government’s commitment to introducing an ‘Anti-Land Grabbing Law.’ The assurance came during a meeting held at the Nagpur Vidhan Bhavan amid the ongoing winter session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.
The delegation, comprising members of the Mandir Mahasangh, Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, temple trustees, priests, and BJP leaders, voiced concerns over the growing instances of illegal land grabbing of temple properties across the state. Highlighting the urgency of the matter, the association called for a stringent law similar to those enacted in Gujarat, Odisha, Karnataka, and Assam.
Cases Highlighted
The delegation presented specific cases of land encroachment, including incidents involving Amravati’s Someshwar Devasthan, Akola’s Balaji Devasthan, and Amravati’s Shri Kaleshwar Devasthan. They alleged that these illegal transactions often involve collusion between government officials and land mafias, leaving temples vulnerable to exploitation.
“Many cases remain unresolved due to prolonged civil suits, and no stringent action has been taken against the culprits,” stated Sunil Ghanwat, National Coordinator of the Mandir Mahasangh.
Government’s Assurance
Chief Minister Fadnavis assured the delegation that the government recognizes the severity of the issue and is committed to taking concrete action. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the state’s resolve to curb encroachments on temple lands.
“The government is serious about addressing encroachments on temple lands and will act promptly,” Shinde assured.
Call for Legislative Action
The Mandir Mahasangh urged the government to enact a robust ‘Anti-Land Grabbing Act’ to provide legal recourse for temples facing such issues. The association believes such a law would deter land mafias and ensure temple properties are preserved for religious and cultural purposes.
Upcoming Event
The delegation also extended invitations to CM Fadnavis and Dy CM Shinde to attend the ‘Maharashtra Mandir Nyas Parishad,’ a two-day event scheduled to be held in Shirdi on December 24 and 25. The event aims to discuss measures to protect temple properties and promote religious harmony.
With the government’s assurance, stakeholders are hopeful that Maharashtra will soon join other states in implementing stringent laws to safeguard the sanctity and ownership of temple lands.