Supreme Court Raises Concerns Over Management of Maharashtra's Shani Shingnapur Temple
Judicial Intervention Required for Temple Security
The Supreme Court has expressed serious concerns regarding the management of the Shani Shingnapur Temple in Maharashtra, indicating that the trust has raised enough doubts about its administration to warrant judicial intervention for the temple's security.
During the ongoing dispute between the Maharashtra government and the temple management trust, the Supreme Court has stayed the Bombay High Court's decision from December 12 and the order issued by the Ahilyanagar collector. This case pertains to the control over the temple's administration and finances.
The court emphasized the urgent need for security measures in the management of this pilgrimage site, stating, "You have raised so much doubt regarding the management of the temple that we need to protect it."
Financial Mismanagement Allegations Surface
In the course of the hearing, the Maharashtra government informed the court that over 2,400 employees are working at the temple, with monthly expenses exceeding ₹2.5 crore for salaries and related costs. The state accused the trust of severe financial mismanagement, claiming that trust members are facing allegations before the charity commissioner.
The trust's lawyer dismissed these allegations as politically motivated and linked to upcoming elections, asserting that the temple has been managed by the trust for years and that the charity commissioner has already audited the accounts. The lawyer also mentioned that the collector took charge of the accounts in September and issued a notice to the trust on December 12.
Chief Justice Questions Staffing Needs
Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud raised questions about the necessity of having 2,400 employees at the temple, noting the strong political background of the trustees. He remarked, "You are handling a case worth crores of rupees. Your term is set to end on December 31." He further clarified that the court is not making any assumptions at this stage.
The Solicitor General informed the court that the rules governing the temple trust were established and implemented on December 12, alleging serious misconduct and suggesting that the government may need to recover funds. The Chief Justice highlighted the importance of having biometric records for the employees and stressed the need for proper management.