Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Jan 12: The government has issued orders making it compulsory for staff discharging duties in temples under the state department of Hindu religious institutions and charitable endowments to wear uniforms. Such temples have been asked to enforce the new rule at the earliest. These uniforms will have to be worn during duty hours.

Out of 36,000 temples in the state, over 5,000 are grouped under grade A. These temples are frequented by devotees and tourists including people from abroad. In 2015, wearing of uniforms for the staff was made compulsory for the convenience of visitors but most of the temples have not implemented the order.

As per the circular, clerks, overseers, Peshwars, managers, receptionists, typists, bill collectors and counter staff have to wear light blue coats without sleeves. Peons, room boys, scavengers, servants, watchmen, room boys, drivers, electricians, plumbers, cleaning staff, gardeners and other staff have to wear dark blue sleeveless coats.

Taking into account non-implementation of the earlier order, this issue was discussed at the meeting of the religious council held here and a decision was taken. As per this decision, executive officers have to provide two sets of uniforms to employees out of temple grants. On the back of the coats, name of the temple and employee's name should be written in semi circle.

Suitable place has to be earmarked for keeping these uniforms and in case of failure to wear them, a fine of Rs 50 per day would be levied. In case the uniforms are lost, they can be provided again and cost should be recovered from employees concerned.