Ensuring Safety and Accountability: The Push for Temple Registration in Bihar

Following a deadly stampede at a temple in Nalanda, Bihar's religious trust council, BSRTC, emphasizes the need for registration of all temples to prevent similar tragedies. The council highlights irregularities in unregistered temples and aims to provide better facilities and administrative support to ensure safety and proper management.

In the aftermath of a tragic stampede at a Nalanda district temple, the Bihar State Religious Trust Council (BSRTC) has urged for urgent registration of all religious sites to prevent future incidents. BSRTC chief Ranbir Nandan noted that the Sheetla Mata temple, where the stampede occurred, was not registered, revealing several operational deficiencies.

The incident resulted in eight deaths and multiple injuries, prompting visits from state and district officials, including the Director General of Police, Vinay Kumar. The local police suspended the Station House Officer of the Deep Nagar police station due to alleged negligence and has initiated an inquiry to determine the stampede's cause.

BSRTC is advocating for unregistered religious entities to comply with mandatory registration to safeguard properties and prevent unauthorized claims. The council aims to enhance facilities at temples to ensure safe religious practices, leveraging administrative support for better management during events. Official data shows approximately 2,512 unregistered temples in Bihar, a stark contrast to the 2,499 registered ones.

(With inputs from agencies.)