Controversy Erupts Over Appointment of Harish Injadi as Kukke Temple Chairman
The recent appointment of Harish Injadi as chairman of the board of directors of Kukke Subrahmanya Temple—one of Karnataka’s wealthiest temples—has triggered a wave of controversy. Harish, a gram panchayat member, has a chequered past, having previously been jailed for allegedly defrauding the temple by issuing fake cheques and misusing tenders meant for temple offerings.
Reports suggest that District In-charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao had recommended Harish for the top post, a move that has not gone down well with locals and political opponents. Residents of Subrahmanya village had earlier objected to his inclusion on the board, even writing to Religious Endowments Minister Ramalinga Reddy, citing his alleged involvement in timber smuggling, sand mafia activities, and past criminal cases. He was also reportedly listed as a rowdy sheeter.
The BJP has criticized the Congress heavily on social media, drawing parallels between the treatment of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty, who was labeled a rowdy sheeter, and the current support for Harish. They accused Congress of hypocrisy for not visiting Shetty’s family while backing a controversial figure for a revered temple post.
Manjunath Bhandari, defending the appointment, clarified that Harish was chosen following legal procedures and police verification, and that no cases have been filed against him since 2008. Harish also defended himself, claiming his name has been officially removed from the rowdy list.
The issue continues to stir debate over political influence, accountability, and temple governance.
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