The Allahabad High Court has approved the Uttar Pradesh government’s plan to construct a corridor for the renowned Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura for the convenience of devotees.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Pritinker Diwaker and Justice Ashutosh Srivastava passed the order while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Anand Sharma and another individual from Mathura.
Previously, the state government presented the corridor development scheme to the court, outlining the acquisition of approximately five acres of land surrounding the temple to enhance devotees’ darshan and puja experiences.
The scheme ensures that there will be no interference in the ‘puja, archana, or shringar’ conducted by the Goswamis, and their existing rights will be preserved. The government will also be responsible for creating amenities such as a parking area, covering the associated costs.
Following deliberation with the involved parties, the high court stated, “The state government is authorized to proceed with the implementation of plans and schemes submitted to this court, deemed appropriate and necessary in the interest of justice. The state government is free to take whatever steps it deems suitable after consulting with technical experts in the field for implementing the scheme.”
Addressing encroachment around the temple premises, the court remarked, “The state government is also free to take appropriate steps for removing the encroachment over the approach roads (galis) to the temple.” Post-implementation of the scheme, the court expects the state government to prevent further obstructions or encroachments on the approach roads to the temple.
On the matter of devotees facing challenges during the corridor development, the bench clarified, “Darshan of the devotees shall not be hampered in any manner, except for the implementation of the scheme, during which appropriate alternative arrangements shall be made. The present management, along with all the stakeholders, is directed to ensure that darshan of the devotees is not restricted in any manner and by anyone.”
The court directed district authorities to strictly adhere to these instructions, with any violations promptly reported. The PIL highlighted law and order issues arising from the large gatherings of devotees, resulting in FIRs for theft, loot, and property damage. The petition also underscored instances of devotee deaths due to the substantial gathering, emphasizing the failure of the local administration in managing the crowds and ensuring proper walking corridors to the temple.
The high court scheduled January 31, 2024, as the next hearing date for the PIL.
