A demand has started from Udupi in Karnataka not to allow entry to non-Hindu businessmen and shopkeepers in the temple function. Now this demand is also being made for annual fairs and religious programs organized in temples located in other parts of the state. It started with the annual Kaup Marigudi festival held in Udupi district where banners were put up saying non-Hindu shopkeepers and businessmen should not be allowed. Similar banners have now been put up at the Padbidari temple festival and also at some temples in Dakshina Kannada district.
The Mari Gudi temple management had considered the request of Hindu organizations in this regard. Some Hindu activists have given memorandums to authorities in different parts of the state, citing the Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions Rules 2002 and the Charitable Arrangements Act, 1997. The Mysuru unit of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Saturday submitted a memorandum to the officials of the muzari (charitable) department, demanding that non-Hindu businessmen and traders be denied entry to the annual festivals and religious programs held in temples. He has also requested to look into the issue of shops allotted to Muslim traders near the famous Chamundeshwari temple in Mysuru.
Banners on this demand in many districts
Hindu activists say the move is a response to Muslims supporting the bandh against the Karnataka High Court verdict on the hijab. He said that this shows his disrespect for the law of the country and the justice system of India. Similar memorandums have been given and banners have been put up at Mandya, Shimoga, Chikkamagaluru, Tumakuru, Hassan and other places to prevent non-Hindu businessmen from attending events at Hindu temples, sources said.
Recently, when this issue came up in the Legislative Assembly, the BJP government distanced itself from the whole issue, citing the rule that property including land or building near Hindu religious institutions cannot be given on lease to non-Hindus. However, clarified that it does not cover street vendors outside the temple premises.