‘It is not just a matter of faith, but also a matter of security…’ Supreme Court’s strictness on Banke Bihari Temple

Tezzbuzz Desk – The Supreme Court of India has expressed serious concern over the ever increasing crowd of devotees and security arrangements at the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan. During the hearing held on Tuesday, the court said that now there is a need to move beyond the traditional methods and “think something different” so that the security and facilities of the devotees can be improved.

A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi stressed on preparing a comprehensive development plan for the entire area of ​​the temple and its surroundings. The court said that the narrow streets and limited space leading to the temple can become the cause of major accidents in future.

During the hearing, the court suggested that road widening, shelters for devotees, drinking water arrangements, public toilets, emergency exits and better transport systems should be developed in the area. It was also said to ensure special facilities for senior citizens and women.

The Supreme Court of India directed the Uttar Pradesh government and the temple management committee to prepare a detailed report in this regard and present it in the court.

During the hearing, senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for the temple management committee, said that many religious traditions of the temple are centuries old and they should not be interfered in the name of administrative convenience. He also objected to the installation of bright halogen lights in the temple premises and said that Banke Bihari ji is worshiped as a living deity, hence such arrangements are against the sentiments of the devotees.

During this, Additional Solicitor General Nataraj told the court that the appointment of four Goswami in the Temple Management Committee has been done through a fair process.

During the hearing, Chief Justice Surya Kant also narrated a historical incident related to Saint Swami Haridas and Mughal Emperor Akbar. He told that Akbar had come with Tansen in disguise to seek the blessings of Saint Haridas. When Akbar asked Saint Haridas to ask for a boon, he did not ask for anything for himself, but requested to give land for the temple.