Legal Battle Over Control of Shri Bankey Bihari Mandir: High Court's Latest Move

The Allahabad High Court has postponed its decision regarding a government ordinance aiming to control the Shri Bankey Bihari Mandir in Mathura. The ordinance's validity is under Supreme Court review, prompting the delay. Concerns have been raised over bureaucratic involvement in the temple's management, citing potential religious rights violations.

The Allahabad High Court has adjourned the hearing on the controversial move to establish a government trust to supervise the Shri Bankey Bihari Mandir, a renowned temple in Mathura. The next hearing is scheduled for August 6, as the ordinance's legitimacy faces scrutiny in the Supreme Court.

Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal was informed by state counsel that challenges to the Uttar Pradesh Shri Bankey Bihari Ji Temple Trust Ordinance, 2025 are currently pending in the apex court. Observing procedural propriety, the High Court advised amending the ordinance considering its implications for bureaucratic inclusion in the proposed trust.

Concerns were raised about potential constitutional violations, specifically Article 25, which guarantees freedom of religion. Amicus curiae Sanjay Goswami argued that the ordinance infringes on the rights of the temple's private custodians, alleging government intrusion through bureaucratic appointments in a traditionally managed temple.

(With inputs from agencies.)