Karnataka Government Implements New SOP for Temple Donations
New Standard Operating Procedures for Temple Donations
The Karnataka government has introduced a comprehensive standard operating procedure (SOP) aimed at enhancing the security, transparency, and accountability of offerings made at state-run temples. As part of this initiative, the installation of CCTV or web cameras within temple premises has become mandatory. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on adopting a QR code-based digital payment system for donations from devotees.
Response to Alleged Donation Theft
This initiative follows reports of alleged thefts of offerings at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had previously instructed officials to ensure that all major temples under the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments (Muzrai) Department are equipped with CCTV cameras. According to a government notification, the rising incidents of theft from donation boxes across various temples in the country necessitated these precautionary measures.
Measures to Prevent Theft
The government has clarified that there have been complaints regarding manipulation or theft of money and jewelry from donation boxes in temples managed by the Muzrai Department. To address this, recorded footage from CCTV cameras will be securely stored on a server. Continuous monitoring of these cameras will be conducted from the Muzrai Department headquarters, as well as the offices of deputy commissioners and sub-divisional officers.
Promotion of Digital Payments
To encourage digital payments, QR codes will be installed in temples, which will include the bank's IFSC code and other essential information. This system will be directly linked to the temple's accounting system to ensure financial management remains transparent. To prevent tampering, special web cameras will be utilized to ensure that the camera lenses are not obstructed by substances like camphor smoke, and a central server will be established at the Muzrai Department headquarters.
Strict Rules for Counting Donations
The government has also established stringent rules for the counting of donations. In larger temples, counting will occur weekly, while other active temples will have it bi-weekly, supervised by a tehsildar. The presence of revenue department officials during the counting process will be mandatory, with dates pre-scheduled in an official calendar. The value of precious metals like gold and silver will be assessed on the same day and deposited immediately into the district or sub-treasury.
Ensuring Transparency in the Process
To enhance transparency, a face-matching system will be implemented for staff involved in the counting process. A complete video recording of the entire procedure, from opening the donation box to handing over cash to the bank, will be made, clearly indicating the date and time. Notably, only home guards, bank employees, or government officials will be involved in the counting process, rather than the general public. In case of any discrepancies, the respective temple officials and taluk-level officers will be held directly accountable.