2023.11.23 (Vrindavan Today News): The recent order of the Allahabad High Court approving the construction of corridor around the Banke Bihari Temple is a victory in guise in favor of the Goswamis, the custodian of the temple.
The legal tussle over the Banke Bihari Corridor construction has taken a turn in favor of the Goswami Samaj, ensuring that the government’s developmental initiatives do not compromise The High Court order has addressed concerns raised by Goswami Samaj regarding Banke Bihari Corridor Construction.
In the aftermath of the Krishna Janmashtami incident, where Anant Sharma filed a petition in the High Court against the construction of the Banke Bihari Corridor, the Goswami community expressed its reservations. The community feared that the government might take complete control of the temple management and seize the temple’s assets and accumulated funds under the guise of corridor construction.
The Goswami Samaj, responsible for the temple’s services had vehemently opposed the corridor’s construction. The initial stages of the court proceedings saw the High Court dismissing the claims of the Goswamis. In response, they filed a plea in the Supreme Court, leading to an order directing the High Court to reconsider their stance.
The Supreme Court’s directive prompted the High Court to reevaluate the arguments presented by the Goswamis. Throughout the corridor construction hearings, the Goswami community consistently voiced their opposition. Himanshu Goswami, representing the temple’s services, highlighted during the proceedings that the facts presented indicated the government’s intention to assert complete control over Banke Bihari Temple, encompassing rituals, worship services, and the temple’s fundamental identity.
After a thorough examination of the facts presented by the Goswami Samaj, the High Court’s recent decision underscores that while the government can proceed with its proposed construction plan for the corridor, it cannot interfere with the internal affairs and fundamental nature of the temple. The verdict is a significant win for the Goswami community, reaffirming their role in managing the temple.
The High Court has scheduled the next hearing for January 31, 2024, allowing for further discussions on the matter. The court’s decision sets the tone for the ongoing legal battle surrounding the Banke Bihari Corridor, balancing the need for development with the preservation of the temple’s autonomy.
