VHP Leader Ashok Chowgule Advocates for Devotees to Control Temple Committees, Not Politicians

Vishwa Hindu Parishad's national vice president, Ashok Chowgule, expressed concerns about political involvement in temple management. He stressed that politicians should not decide who joins temple committees. If a political figure is included, they must be a practising Hindu and participate as a devotee, not as a representative of their political party.

Chowgule highlighted the importance of forming temple committees with practising Hindu devotees rather than political appointees. He stated, "Temple committees must be formed by practising Hindu devotees, not appointed or influenced by political parties. Political persons should not decide the temple management committees. If a political member is to be inducted, he should be a devotee. Devotees and practising Hindus should decide the temple committees."

Political Influence on Temple Management

Addressing reporters at a book launch event in Nagpur, Chowgule reiterated his stance on keeping politics out of religious affairs. The book, "Moropant Pingley: The Architect of Hindu Resurgence," was released by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat. Chowgule's comments were made during this event.

Chowgule also commented on the issue of construction on allegedly encroached temple lands in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. He emphasised that temple lands should remain under the control of devotees and not be subject to political interference.

Views on Historical Sites

When questioned about the VHP’s stance on Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Chowgule remarked that neither the tomb nor Aurangzeb should receive any glorification. "It is a private place—let it remain private. It should not be politicised," he added.

The VHP is organising the World Hindu Economic Forum in Adelaide, Australia, from August 1 to 2. This event is expected to gather around 500 delegates globally, showcasing the organisation's efforts to foster economic collaboration among Hindus worldwide.

The forum aims to bring together business leaders and professionals to discuss economic opportunities and challenges within the Hindu community. By facilitating such gatherings, the VHP seeks to strengthen economic ties and promote prosperity among Hindus across different regions.

With inputs from PTI