High-Powered Committee Chairman, Retd. Justice Ashok Kumar, directs strict maintenance of daily income-expenditure accounts and prioritizes devotee facilities.
Vrindavan: In a significant move to ensure transparency and improve the management of the world-renowned Thakur Banke Bihari Temple, the High-Powered Management Committee has issued strict new directives. During the committee's seventh meeting held on Wednesday at the Laxman Shaheed Auditorium, Committee Chairman and retired Allahabad High Court Justice Ashok Kumar emphasized that mismanagement will no longer be tolerated at the temple, which holds a prominent place on the global spiritual map.
Daily Financial Reporting & Monthly Audits
The most major decision taken during the meeting is the enforcement of strict financial accountability. The Chairman has ordered the current management to maintain a detailed daily record of all income and expenditure.
- This detailed report must be submitted to the committee regularly.
- The committee will conduct a monthly audit of the accounts to ensure total transparency in the temple's financial system.
Focus on Devotee Convenience and Safety
Justice Kumar stated that the convenience of devotees (shraddhalus) is the top priority. To ensure a hassle-free darshan experience, several infrastructure and administrative decisions were discussed:
- Structural Safety: A review of the temple’s structural stability will be conducted to ensure safety.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Decisions were taken regarding the installation of railings within the temple premises and the potential opening of the basement (Tehkhana).
- Live Streaming: The committee reviewed applications and tasks related to the live streaming of temple proceedings to allow devotees worldwide to connect with the deity.
Banking and Asset Review
The committee also scrutinized the crores of rupees currently deposited in the temple's bank accounts. It was decided that a meeting with bank officials would be organized soon to review these funds. Additionally, an investigation has been launched into irregularities found at a 357 sq. yard semi-constructed site associated with the temple.
Strict Adherence to Orders
The meeting was attended by key administrative figures, including Member Secretary/DM Chandra Prakash Singh, SSP Shlok Kumar, MVDA Vice Chairman Shyam Bahadur Singh, and various judicial officers and Sewayats (priests). The Chairman made it clear that all orders issued by the committee must be followed mandatorily to uphold the faith of the devotees and the dignity of the temple administration.
Impact on Vrindavan
This move towards organized management and transparency is expected to significantly enhance the pilgrimage experience in Vrindavan. For the city's ecosystem, better temple administration translates to smoother tourism flow and improved reputation, further solidifying Vrindavan's status as a premier spiritual destination.