In another effort to counter the BJP campaign surrounding the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Department in Karnataka is requesting funds to renovate 100 Ram temples across the state.
Speaking to The Indian Express, Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy stated, “We have requested special funds for the renovation of these temples spread across the state.”
Although there were reports of over Rs 100 crore being requested for this purpose, Reddy clarified that they have not asked for a specific amount. He said, “The government can allocate whatever money it deems fit.”
The finance portfolio in the state is under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
The proposal was presented during the pre-budget meeting of the department held recently. The Karnataka Budget for the 2024-25 fiscal will be presented on February 16.
During the consecration of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya on January 22, temples under the Muzrai Department of the state were instructed to offer special prayers coinciding with the widely publicized ceremony. This was seen as an attempt to counter the BJP’s Mantrakshate campaign, which involves distributing holy grains and invitations to the temple inauguration in all villages of the state.
Leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha election, the ruling Congress party in Karnataka is facing criticism from the Opposition BJP for its alleged “anti-Hindu” stance in recent months.
Starting with the arrest of a Hindu activist in a 31-year-old arson case in early January and more recently with the Keragodu flag incident in Mandya, the BJP has accused the state government of working against the interests of Hindus.
In addition, the BJP plans to send 10,000 devotees from Karnataka to Ayodhya.