Vidhyavasini shrine's acquisition becomes apple of discord

Mirzapur, July 16 (UNI) The district administration and Panda community are pitted against each other on the acquistion of the world-famous holy shrine of Goddess Vindhyavasini here.

With a terror threat looming large on famous Hindu religious sites, the district administration wants to acquive the Vindhyavasani temple. However, the 'Pandas' are agitating as the move ''hurts their religious sentiments.'' A fresh dispute arose after the administration banned 'naariyal' (coconut) offering to Maa Vindhyavasini, popularly known as Goddess Jagdamba.

The Panda community is agitated, following the July 11 decision of the devisional commissioner Umadhar Dwivedi to get channel gates constructed in the temple premises, in order to restrict entry in the ''garbhgrah'' (sanctum sanctorum).

Panda community president Rajan Panda said ''we are unhappy as banning of the 'naariyal offering' is hurting our religious sentiments.'' ''We would also meet Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati and cabinet minister Satish Chandra Mishra over the issue,'' he added.

In 2000, the state government had decided to passed the 'UP Maa Vindhyavasini Temple Act,' whereby, the 'Pandas' had to hand over all the cash offerings to the government.

However, the Act was withdrawn, following widespread agitation by the 'Pandas.' According to sources, every year, over 50 lakh pilgrims throng the holy city to pay obeisance at the world famous 'Shaktipeeth'.

Every year, the temple administration receives Rs 15 crore as offerrings, however, only Rs five lakh gets deposited in the government accounts. The rest goes into private hands.

UNI