Karnataka To Reclaim Temple Lands, Tighten Monitoring Of Temple Finances: Parameshwara

Belagavi: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara on Wednesday said the government would launch a statewide exercise to reclaim encroached temple lands, introduce stricter monitoring of temple finances and upgrade infrastructure at major temples as part of a broader reform of the Endowments Department.

Addressing reporters in Belagavi, Parameshwara said Deputy Commissioners across the state would be directed to conduct surveys of lands belonging to all the three- A, B and C category temples, and remove encroachments wherever they are found.

"It has come to our notice that lands and sites belonging to several temples have been encroached upon. Officials in every district will carry out surveys, complete the necessary land records and ensure that encroached properties are reclaimed," he said.

The minister said the government would also focus on improving infrastructure at prominent temples that receive a large number of devotees. Referring to the Saundatti Yellamma temple, he said it was an A-category temple managed by authority and had already been asked to prepare a comprehensive master plan.

The master plans for the prominent temples that attract huge number of devotees, he said, should ensure that devotees have better facilities for darshan, prasadam distribution and accommodation. Temple revenue should be utilised for improving infrastructure and amenities after obtaining the required approvals from the dedicated management authority or the government.

For temples that do not have a dedicated management authority, Parameshwara said proposals should be sent to the government for scrutiny and administrative approval so that development works could be taken up.

The Deputy Chief Minister also warned of stringent action against any misuse of temple funds.

"We will not allow any financial irregularities in temples under any circumstances. What we are witnessing in Ayodhya is an alarming reminder. Strict action will be taken, particularly in A and B category temples where revenue generation is high," he said.

To strengthen oversight, the Endowments Department will introduce a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) under which Deputy Commissioners or Tahsildars will conduct monthly reviews of temple administration and submit reports to the government.

On sports, Parameshwara said the government would give greater emphasis to developing sports infrastructure across Karnataka. Quality sports facilities would be created in district level, schools and colleges where infrastructure is lacking, with additional budgetary allocations to be made in the coming years.

Referring to the cycling velodrome in Vijayapura, he said the government was committed to creating better sporting infrastructure across the state.

The minister also said that while the Home Department has already implemented a three per cent reservation in recruitment for sportspersons, other government departments would provide a two per cent reservation. The policy would be implemented in the forthcoming recruitment of around 72,000 vacancies across various departments.