Call for a white paper
Hindu organisations have urged Chief Minister Vijay to direct the release of a white paper detailing the functioning of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department during the previous DMK government.
Palani land case cited
The demand comes amid the Palani temple land case, in which 14 people were arrested over an alleged attempt to encroach on land valued at about Rs 100 crore. Minister Nirmalkumar said the CB-CID is investigating the case and is also looking into whether other temple lands have been encroached upon.
Demands raised by temple protection group
Speaking in Madurai, Adhiseshan, state treasurer of the Hindu Temple Protection Movement, said a judicial inquiry should be conducted into the Palani land issue. He said the organisation passed a resolution on the matter at its state general council meeting held recently in Palani.
Wider reforms sought
He also alleged that unnecessary parking facilities were built on temple premises for commission-related gains, and said tenders issued for further construction were later cancelled by the TVK government. The group sought publication of detailed property lists of all temples, periodic verification of leased properties every 10 years with rent fixed as per government guideline value, filling of vacant posts based on merit, and complete removal of darshan fees. He also said the Karthigai Deepam should be lit at the Deepa Thoon on the Tirupparankundram hilltop as per a court order.
