Supreme Court Intervenes in Shri Banke Bihari Temple Management Overhaul

The Supreme Court has proposed forming an interim committee led by an ex-High Court judge to manage Shri Banke Bihari Temple amid a dispute over a 2025 UP ordinance. The move comes as the court questioned Uttar Pradesh's urgency in establishing the trust for the temple's administration and redevelopment plans.

The Supreme Court on Monday suggested establishing an interim committee managed by a former High Court judge to oversee the administration of Shri Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Mathura. Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi expressed concerns over Uttar Pradesh's urgent enactment of the Shri Bankey Bihari Temple Trust Ordinance, 2025, aimed at taking control of the temple's management.

The ordinance's provisions, involving a Rs 500 crore fund for redevelopment, were also questioned by Justice Kant, who encouraged mediation, citing Lord Krishna as the first mediator. The Justices argued that the Allahabad High Court should first evaluate the constitutional legitimacy of the ordinance before the temple's management is revised.

Meanwhile, temple rituals remain unchanged. The interim committee is suggested to include the Collector and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) representatives to ensure comprehensive regional development. The Supreme Court adjourned the hearings to August 5, allowing for governmental feedback on its proposals, while scrutinizing the temple's administrative transition to a statutory trust.

(With inputs from agencies.)