No alternate jyotirlinga at Omkareshwar

Khandwa, MP, July 3 : A simmering dispute seems to have been laid to rest with the trashing of a proposal to establish an alternate shivling at this district's Omkareshwar -- on the Narmada's bank -- in view of erosion of the existing 'swayambhu (self-sprung) jyotirlinga'.

In a release issued today, Omkareshwar Temple Trust Chief Executive Officer Swami Tejanand -- the proposal was his brainchild -- clarified that there was no justification in substituting the jyotirlinga on account of its being self-sprung but an attempt would be made to prevent further damage to the emblem.

Meanwhile, Collector Nikunj Srivastava told UNI, that an ''archaeologists' report on the jyotirlinga's conservation is expected by tomorrow evening. Based on that document, discussions will be conducted with locals and priests.'' Pointing out that there was no ban on either anointing or worshipping the jyotirlinga, the official added that the 'abhishek' (coronoation) ritual was only halted for a few hours on July 1.

''An earlier ban on flinging coconuts and coins on the jyotirlinga is being strictly enforced,'' Mr Srivastava said.

UNI