Vishva Hindu Parishad Launches Nationwide Campaign to Free Hindu Temples from Government Control
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), a prominent Hindu right-wing organization, has announced a nationwide campaign to advocate for the autonomy of Hindu temples. The campaign seeks to end the control of state governments over temple management and operations, calling the current system discriminatory and unjust towards the Hindu community.
The campaign will formally kick off on January 5, 2025, in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, where the VHP will host a significant gathering called Haindava Shankhaaraavam to raise awareness and mobilize support. The organization’s ultimate goal is to return the management of temples to the hands of devoted and competent members of the Hindu community, aligning with constitutional guarantees of religious freedom.
VHP’s Vision: Autonomy for Hindu Temples
The VHP’s call to action focuses on the belief that Hindu temples should be managed by the community rather than under the control of state governments. The organization argues that this government involvement in temple administration is discriminatory, especially considering that mosques and churches in India operate without government interference. This imbalance, according to the VHP, violates the principles outlined in Articles 12, 25, and 26 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee freedom of religion and protection of religious practices.
VHP leaders, including the organization’s General Secretary Milind Parande, have emphasized that it is unfortunate that, post-independence, temples were not transferred into the hands of the Hindu community. “Temples should have been handed over to Hindu society long ago, but the government continues to control and oversee their operations,” Parande said in a statement.
A Detailed Roadmap for Change
To achieve their objective, the VHP has devised a comprehensive roadmap for temple management reform. The organization has set up a think tank that includes legal experts, retired judges, and revered figures from the Sant Samaj. This group has been tasked with drafting a proposal to remove government involvement and ensure that the operations of temples are managed by individuals who are devoted and well-versed in Hindu rituals and scriptures.
The VHP’s proposed system includes the creation of state-level “dharmic councils.” These councils would consist of respected members from the Hindu community, retired officials, judges, and experts in Hindu practices. These councils would be responsible for electing district-level committees that would then choose the trustees of local temples. A key component of this proposal is the creation of mechanisms to resolve disputes related to temple management and resources.
VHP’s Milind Parande stated that a vital part of the transformation is ensuring that only practicing Hindus are employed in temples, particularly for roles that involve worship, offerings, and services. He also emphasized that politicians should not be allowed to serve on temple trust boards, ensuring that religious duties are not politicized.
The Case Against Political Interference in Temple Management
The VHP has made it clear that the involvement of politicians in temple management has led to inefficiencies and corruption. The organization is calling for the removal of politicians from temple trust boards, arguing that the income generated by temples should be used solely for the propagation of Hinduism and the service of the community—not for government expenditures or unrelated purposes.
One of the key aspects of the VHP’s argument is that the management of religious institutions like mosques and churches is free from government oversight, and temples should receive the same treatment. According to the VHP, this discriminatory policy is not only unfair but also undermines the spiritual and cultural significance of Hindu temples.
VHP’s Continued Engagement with State Governments
The VHP’s efforts to seek autonomy for Hindu temples have gained momentum through direct dialogues with state governments. Last week, VHP representatives met with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, presenting a draft proposal for temple management reform. The VHP has also reached out to governors across India, requesting that state governments withdraw from temple management. In addition to the January 5 event in Vijayawada, the organization plans to hold similar discussions with other political leaders to further its cause.
While the VHP is preparing for these crucial discussions, it is clear that the campaign for temple autonomy will face resistance from some political quarters. However, the VHP’s determination to bring about change is evident, and the organization is mobilizing public opinion through grassroots campaigns, media outreach, and legal interventions.
The Call for Public Awareness: Haindava Shankhaaraavam in Vijayawada
The VHP’s public awakening campaign will begin with the Haindava Shankhaaraavam event in Vijayawada on January 5, 2025. The event is expected to attract large crowds and will feature speeches from key leaders, including VHP’s senior representatives and religious figures. The gathering will aim to raise awareness about the importance of temple autonomy and galvanize support for the cause across the nation.
By organizing this high-profile event, the VHP hopes to create a groundswell of public opinion that will push state governments to relinquish control over Hindu temples and allow the community to take full responsibility for their operation and upkeep.
Conclusion: A Crucial Movement for Hindu Religious Freedom
The Vishva Hindu Parishad’s nationwide campaign for temple autonomy has sparked an important debate on religious freedom, government intervention, and the management of sacred institutions. With the support of religious leaders, legal experts, and communities across India, the VHP is determined to challenge the status quo and bring about meaningful change in the way Hindu temples are governed.
As the Haindava Shankhaaraavam event approaches, the VHP’s call for Hindu temple autonomy is gaining traction. Whether or not state governments will heed the organization’s demands remains to be seen, but the movement is certain to shape future discussions on religious freedom and governance in India.