Politics · India Bureau
Supreme Court cracks down on donation misappropriation at Mathura temple
India's apex court has issued strict directions to ensure all offerings at the Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura reach the official donation boxes and online treasury without diversion. The court warned it would view any obstruction by temple functionaries or others very seriously.
LSN India ·
The Supreme Court of India has stepped in to prevent the siphoning of donations at the Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, directing that every rupee contributed by devotees must reach the designated donation boxes or the temple's online treasury system.
In its order, the court made clear that it would not tolerate any interference in the collection and deposit of donations by sevayats—temple priests and functionaries—or any other person. The bench stated that obstructions to the proper accounting of offerings would be treated as serious violations warranting strict action.
The directive comes amid concerns about the transparent management of donations at one of north India's most visited religious sites. The temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, attracts thousands of pilgrims daily who make monetary offerings as part of their worship.
The court's intervention underscores the judiciary's role in ensuring accountability in the management of temple finances and protecting the interests of devotees. The ruling is expected to set a precedent for other religious institutions regarding the handling and documentation of public donations.