Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri made a firm declaration in Mandi on Sunday clarifying that the State Government will not appropriate temple funds for any of its schemes.
Agnihotri, speaking to journalists during his visit as the chief guest for the Madhya Jaleb procession at the Shivratri festival, emphasized that the Language and Culture Department — overseeing temple affairs under his jurisdiction — remains committed to protecting sacred resources. “Temple funds will never be diverted for government activities,” he stated, addressing concerns that have recently surfaced in political circles.
Agnihotri also shed light on the past usage of temple funds, noting that they were only used for exceptional circumstances such as contributions to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund and disaster relief efforts. He made it clear that any financial assistance from temples or trusts to help the needy is entirely voluntary and subject to legal provisions, with decisions made independently by the temples themselves.
In a pointed remark, the Deputy Chief Minister accused BJP leaders of circulating false propaganda about the use of temple funds. “Such misinformation will not benefit anyone,” he asserted, adding that the opposition’s narrative, including objections raised by figures like Jai Ram Thakur regarding participation in the Kumbh Snan, is baseless.
“We are as religious as they are, and our actions reflect our commitment to safeguarding our heritage,” Agnihotri said, dismissing the objections as politically motivated.
Highlighting the financial realities, he noted that although 36 temples in Himachal are under government control, only four or five are financially robust. “The combined temple deposits amount to around Rs 500 crore, which is insignificant compared to our state’s Rs 55,000 crore budget. Instead of taking money from temples, our government provides financial assistance to ensure their upkeep,” he explained, reinforcing the government’s respectful approach towards religious institutions.
Earlier in the day, Agnihotri also flagged off a road safety bike rally organized as part of the International Mahashivratri Festival. The rally, which began at Seri Manch and passed through Mangwai, Chakker, Ner Chowk before concluding at Dadour, saw participation from 100 bikers and 25 cars.
Mandi Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan joined the ride, ensuring that all participants strictly adhered to safety norms and speed limits. Following the rally, Agnihotri urged motorists to “drive with awareness, not excitement,” emphasizing the importance of abiding by traffic rules, avoiding intoxicated driving, maintaining vehicle fitness, and using seat belts, helmets, and low beams at night.
