Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru (MS)

Bengaluru, Dec 31: The statement given by chief minister Basavaraj Bommai on giving autonomous status to all temples in the state has drawn for and against views.

Leader of opposition Siddaramaiah said, “If the government does the work of developing the Hindu temples we do not have any objection. However, the financial condition of temples should be verified before giving them autonomous status.

“Many temples in Karnataka are facing a financial crisis. If they are given autonomous status, it will be difficult to manage such temples. The government tries to mislead people but they are intelligent. They will decide what they want,” he said.

KPCC president D K Shivakumar said, “The government is committing a blunder by keeping Hindu temples out of the control of the Muzrai department. Temples are the assets of the state. The government earns crores of rupees of revenue from these temples. It is not possible to assess the aim of the government behind this step. We will discuss this issue with senior leaders about this issue and decide.”

BJP national chief secretary and MLA C T Ravi said, “Muslims have Wakf board. Christians have their own religious board. When the government does not meddle in their affairs, why are the temples controlled by the government? Temples are the property of Hindu society. They should be given back to them. Devotees offer alms and charity to the temple out of emotions. That is why it is not right for the government to control temples.”