NEW DELHI: Himachal Pradesh leader of opposition Jairam Thakur hit out at the Congress government accusing it of pressuring temples under its control to contribute funds for the ‘Sukh Ashray’ scheme, a government welfare initiative.
Taking to social media platform X, former CM Thakur claimed that 36 major temples managed by the state have been asked to provide financial assistance for running the scheme. He alleged that while the Sukhu-led government “opposes Sanatana Dharma and makes anti-Hindu statements,” it is now seeking temple funds to sustain its flagship program.
In a video message, Thakur further alleged that district administrations were coercing temple trusts to transfer money to the government treasury. “A secretary in the Himachal Pradesh government has issued a letter to deputy commissioners, directing them to collect funds from temple trusts and deposit them in the treasury to finance government schemes. This is unprecedented and unacceptable,” he said.
Thakur asserted that previous governments had only sought contributions from temples in times of natural disasters, but this move to divert funds for regular welfare programs was unprecedented. “They are not just requesting funds; they are actively following up and applying pressure. This decision must be opposed. Temple trusts and committees should resist this move,” he urged.
The Sukh Ashray scheme aims to provide better opportunities for orphans, single and destitute women, and the elderly. In a letter dated January 29, the Art, Language, and Culture Department formally requested temple trusts to contribute to the Mukhya Mantri Sukh Ashray Yojna/Kosh and Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojna/Kosh as part of their charitable activities.
Jairam Thakur vowed to strongly oppose the decision in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha session starting February 10 and beyond. “We will fight this both inside and outside the assembly,” he said, reiterating BJP’s stance against the move.
Congress defends move
Himachal Pradesh Congress chief Pratibha Singh responded to allegations by Jairam Thakur regarding the state government’s request for funds from temples to finance the Sukh Ashray scheme.
Singh said that the government was running the Sukh Ashray scheme to support the education of helpless children and to give them a better life. She further stated that the scheme was for a good cause.
Speaking to ANI, Singh assured that the scheme’s intent was noble, stating, “Our government is running the Sukh-Aashray scheme for a good cause. This scheme was launched for the helpless children, to support their education and give them a better life…”
She further said that the money was not just being used to run the finances of the temple and the government had called everyone to donate amount for the welfare of the children.
“It is not only about temples. We are calling everyone who can to come and donate an amount for the welfare of the children. Organisations other than temples should also come forward and contribute to the good cause…” she further stated.