Himachal government asks temples for donations, BJP says ‘assault on Sanatan Dharma’ | India News

NEW DELHI: Himachal Pradesh chief of opposition Jairam Thakur hit out on the Congress government accusing it of pressuring temples below its management to contribute funds for the ‘Sukh Ashray’ scheme, a government welfare initiative.
Taking to social media platform X, former CM Thakur claimed that 36 main temples managed by the state have been requested to offer monetary help for operating the scheme. He alleged that whereas the Sukhu-led government “opposes Sanatana Dharma and makes anti-Hindu statements,” it’s now in search of temple funds to maintain its flagship program.
In a video message, Thakur additional alleged that district administrations have been coercing temple trusts to switch cash to the government treasury. “A secretary in the Himachal Pradesh government has issued a letter to deputy commissioners, directing them to collect funds from temple trusts and deposit them in the treasury to finance government schemes. This is unprecedented and unacceptable,” he mentioned.
Thakur asserted that earlier governments had solely sought contributions from temples in occasions of pure disasters, however this transfer to divert funds for common welfare applications was unprecedented. “They are not just requesting funds; they are actively following up and applying pressure. This decision must be opposed. Temple trusts and committees should resist this move,” he urged.
The Sukh Ashray scheme goals to offer higher alternatives for orphans, single and destitute ladies, and the aged. In a letter dated January 29, the Art, Language, and Culture Department formally requested temple trusts to contribute to the Mukhya Mantri Sukh Ashray Yojna/Kosh and Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojna/Kosh as a part of their charitable actions.
Jairam Thakur vowed to strongly oppose the choice within the upcoming Vidhan Sabha session beginning February 10 and past. “We will fight this both inside and outside the assembly,” he mentioned, reiterating BJP’s stance towards the transfer.
Congress defends transfer
Himachal Pradesh Congress chief Pratibha Singh responded to allegations by Jairam Thakur concerning the state government’s request for funds from temples to finance the Sukh Ashray scheme.
Singh mentioned that the government was operating the Sukh Ashray scheme to assist the schooling of helpless youngsters and to present them a greater life. She additional acknowledged that the scheme was for trigger.
Speaking to ANI, Singh assured that the scheme’s intent was noble, stating, “Our government is running the Sukh-Aashray scheme for a good cause. This scheme was launched for the helpless children, to support their education and give them a better life…”
She additional mentioned that the cash was not simply getting used to run the funds of the temple and the government had referred to as everybody to donate quantity for the welfare of the youngsters.
“It is not only about temples. We are calling everyone who can to come and donate an amount for the welfare of the children. Organisations other than temples should also come forward and contribute to the good cause…” she additional acknowledged.