Kardar Sangh to oppose Raghunath temple takeover

Our Correspondent

Kullu, August 6

The Kullu Kardar Sangh held a general house to discuss its future course of action against the Raghunath temple takeover today.

Sangh president Dot Ram Thakur said it was unanimously decided that the association would oppose any interference in the affairs of the temple.

Dot Ram said as many as 100 members were of the opinion that the government should review its decision.

He said Maheshwar Singh, scion of the erstwhile royal family, who is also the “chharibardar” (chief caretaker) of Lord Raghunath had approached the High Court and the people were hoping that the government would review its decision considering the religious sentiments of devotees.

He added that a request had been made to Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh to ensure conservation of the existing rituals and customs of the deities.

Following the government notification, the Kullu DC, on July 26, had given a week’s notice to Maheshwar asking him to hand over the temple assets. He, however, moved the High Court against the acquisition of the temple saying it was his private property. On his plea, the High Court had restrained the state from taking any action on the notification and listed the matter for hearingon August 11.

While most residents are against the takeover, there a few who think that the security will improve if the temple is acquired.