Bodhgaya Temple Committee in Crosshairs: Arunachal Buddhists Join Kiren Rijiju’s Concerns
Buddhist Community Unites to Seek Revamp of Bodhgaya Temple Management
Representatives from various Buddhist monastic institutions, NGOs, student bodies, and senior community leaders from Arunachal Pradesh recently gathered to discuss their long-standing concerns over the Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC). The meeting, held at the Circuit House, aimed to advocate for changes in the committee’s structure and ensure the spiritual and cultural authenticity of the temple’s management.
During the deliberations, the attendees expressed strong support for the cause, appreciating the efforts to push for a more inclusive and representative management system. The group unanimously resolved to submit a memorandum to Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, urging him to raise the concerns of the Buddhist community at the national level.
On April 12, the delegation met with Minister Rijiju, who assured his full support for the cause, emphasizing his commitment to preserving the sanctity and heritage of Buddhist institutions. In the memorandum, the representatives made two key requests: the reconstitution of the BTMC to comprise solely Buddhist members, including monks and monastic bodies, and reforms that enshrine Buddhist representation in the legal and administrative framework governing the Mahabodhi Temple.
The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a focal point of cultural and religious significance, and the demand for exclusive Buddhist management has been a long-standing one. With ministerial backing, the community hopes to gain momentum in achieving this goal. The delegation also proposed a peace march, with the date to be announced once permission is granted by the Deputy Commissioner. They appealed to the public and all Buddhist bodies to unite and participate peacefully.
Exclusive Buddhist Management: A Step Towards Enhanced Heritage Preservation
The movement has been met with widespread support, with the delegates expressing gratitude to all NGOs and individuals who participated in the discussion and pledged their support. The Buddhist community is now endeavoring to ensure that the temple’s management is more reflective of its cultural and spiritual significance. With the backing of Minister Rijiju, it remains to be seen how the committee will respond to these demands. One thing is certain, however – the community’s determination to preserve the sanctity and heritage of the Mahabodhi Temple is unwavering.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/arunachal-pradesh/story/arunachal-buddhist-community-kiren-rijiju-discuss-concerns-over-bodhgaya-temple-committee-1198283-2025-04-13?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-04-13 10:18:00
