Complaint filed for changing structure in Trimbakeshwar temple

Nashik, Oct 10 (UNI) A complaint has been filed against unidentified persons for making some structural changes in the renowned Lord Shiva Temple, one of the 12 jyotirlingas, at Trimabkeshwar, near here.

According to police, the incident came to light when Satyapriya Shukla, priest of temple, came for his daily rituals early this morning. He noticed that the marble flooring around the jyotirlinga had been replaced with cement plaster. When Mr Shukla enquired about the changes to K M Kale, an employee of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at the temple, he too was unaware of it.

Mr Kale later enquired about the changes to his deparment's higher officials, but they were also unaware. The department had never ordered or suggested such a change.

Mr Kale registered a complaint with the police under section 30 (1) of the Antique Research related Excavation Act of 1958, police said.

Considering the threat perception to the temple, this act seems to be serious one. The security at the temple has been stepped up, after Panchavati police recently received a letter threatening blasts at various temples, including the Trimbakeshwar temple.

Besides this, the other temples mentioned in the letter included city's Kalaram Temple, Sai Baba Temple at Shirdi and NMC ward No 91, where elections were held on Sunday. The issue is also a matter of faith for millions of Lord Shiva's devotees.

Acording to Mr Shukla, the keys of temple are with one Tungar Trust. The act must have been done during the period 2200 hrs to 0700 hrs today. This seems to be the act of one of the persons related to the Trust.

UNI