Uttarakhand Government to Enforce Stricter Laws for Temple Trusts

In a crucial decision, the Uttarakhand Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, has resolved to implement stringent regulations to prevent unauthorized formations of trusts, temples, or committees associated with revered religious sites, including the Chardham and other major temples in the state.
This significant move follows a recent controversy sparked by the proposal of the Shri Kedarnath Dham Delhi Trust to erect a replica of the Kedarnath temple in Burari, Delhi, with the foundation stone laid by Chief Minister Dhami. The contentious development drew criticism from the priests of Kedarnath Dham, as well as the main opposition party, Congress.
While Chief Minister Dhami has addressed the concerns surrounding the project, Surinder Rautela, the head of the temple building trust, affirmed that the government is not directly associated with the temple construction. In response to the community’s sentiments, Rautela assured that the name of the ‘Delhi Kedarnath temple’ would be modified appropriately to prevent any hurt feelings.
In other key developments, Chief Minister Dhami conducted a comprehensive review meeting with senior officials, during which he issued directives for the swift repair of all state roads to be free of potholes within a month post-monsoon. Emphasizing the need for speedy yet high-quality construction initiatives, Dhami outlined the imperative of efficient execution following the monsoon season.
With the upcoming Kanwar fair on the horizon, the Chief Minister emphasized the paramount significance of meticulous arrangements, emphasizing the provision of clean surroundings, potable water, healthcare services, and the preservation of the ghats’ cleanliness. The directives underscore the government’s commitment to upholding safety, sanitation, and communal well-being during anticipated public events and ongoing infrastructure projects.