Bengaluru: The recent passing of the ‘Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Bill 2024′ by the Congress government in Karnataka has sparked controversy, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticizing it as “anti-Hindu.” According to the bill, temples generating over ₹1 crore in revenue will be subjected to a 10 percent tax, while those with revenues ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore will face a 5 percent tax.
Vijayendra Yediyurappa, the Karnataka BJP president, condemned the bill, accusing the Congress government of targeting Hindu temples to bolster its finances. Yediyurappa expressed concern that the funds collected would be diverted for other purposes, rather than being utilized for temple renovation and devotees’ welfare, potentially leading to unrest among believers.
Responding to Yediyurappa’s remarks, Karnataka minister Ramalinga Reddy accused the BJP of politicizing religion. Reddy asserted that the Congress has historically protected Hindu interests and temples, dismissing the BJP’s accusations as politically motivated. He also questioned the BJP’s record of governance, particularly during its terms when similar bills existed but were not implemented effectively.
The debate highlights the intersection of religion and politics in Karnataka, with both parties presenting contrasting narratives regarding the bill’s implications for Hindu institutions and the government’s intentions behind its implementation.
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