Chennai, June 23:
A sharp exchange took place in the Tamil Nadu Assembly after HR&CE Minister Ramesh questioned the previous Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government’s decision to utilise temple funds for infrastructure projects such as multi-level parking facilities.
Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin sought clarity on whether the current government shared the BJP’s stance that the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department should not run educational institutions.
Responding to the debate, Minister Ramesh stated that temple revenues should primarily be used for the benefit of devotees and temple administration, highlighting expenditures on essential amenities like sanitation and basic infrastructure.
Questioning earlier priorities, Ramesh asked why significant funds were allocated to parking structures instead of addressing basic facilities such as toilets in temples. He also alleged that temple funds had been diverted for commercial purposes, including marriage halls.
Former HR&CE Minister P. K. Sekarbabu defended the projects, stating they were implemented based on recommendations from elected representatives. He cited a proposed parking facility in Coonoor as a revenue-generating initiative aimed at supporting local tourism.
However, Ramesh countered that even if temple land was used, the rationale behind utilising temple funds remained questionable. “Devotees seek peaceful darshan, not parking complexes,” he remarked.
Intervening, Udhayanidhi Stalin argued that multi-level parking facilities are essential for major temples and should not be dismissed, especially considering increasing visitor numbers.