Supreme Court Questions Banke Bihari Temple Committee on Fund Usage, May Revoke Corridor Order

The case has sparked a debate over control, heritage, and development. While the temple committee insists on its historical role, the government and the judiciary are focusing on enhancing infrastructure for the millions of devotees. All eyes are now on the next hearing, which could reshape the future of religious management in Vrindavan.

Supreme Court Grills Banke Bihari Temple Committee Over Fund Control

In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has raised sharp questions regarding the management and usage of funds belonging to the revered Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan. The court is considering revoking its previous order that allowed the Uttar Pradesh government to use temple funds for the construction of a corridor to facilitate religious tourism and manage growing pilgrim footfall.

SC Hints at Revoking Corridor Fund Order

On 15 May, the Supreme Court permitted the state government to utilize temple funds for the development of the Banke Bihari Corridor. However, during a recent hearing, the bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi indicated that this order might be withdrawn. The court said the matter requires more balanced consideration, especially since the decision was made without hearing all stakeholders.

A Committee to Oversee Temple Management Likely

The court also suggested forming a new committee under the leadership of a retired High Court judge. This committee will oversee the temple's functioning and monitor development work in the surrounding area. It is likely to include the local district magistrate and may receive support from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), considering the temple's historic significance.

State's Ordinance Challenged by Temple Committee

The temple management committee has filed a petition against a state ordinance passed shortly after the May verdict. This ordinance allowed the government to intervene in temple affairs, which the committee claims undermines centuries-old traditional rights held by the Goswami families who have managed the temple since its inception.

Representing the committee, senior advocate Shyam Divan argued that Banke Bihari is a private temple, and the government has no right to interfere in its internal management or finances. He claimed that the government bypassed due process and imposed control without the consent of the rightful custodians.

“Why Should All the Funds Stay in Your Pocket?”: SC

The court posed a direct question to the temple committee:

“The temple may be private, but the deity belongs to all. Why shouldn’t funds be used for development that benefits the lakhs of devotees visiting every year? Why do you want all the money to stay in your pocket?”

The bench emphasized that religious institutions must serve public interest, particularly when large numbers of devotees are involved. The justices also noted that any legal challenge to the state ordinance should be directed to the High Court.

What’s Next?

After nearly 50 minutes of heated deliberation, the court adjourned the hearing until 10:30 AM on Tuesday, August 5. Until then, no final decision will be taken on fund utilization or the potential revocation of the 15 May order. However, the direction is clear: the apex court is keen on balancing traditional rights with the broader public interest.