CM’s statement on taking over Udupi Krishna Mutt draws flak from BJP leaders

CM’s statement on taking over Udupi Krishna Mutt draws flak from BJP leaders

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, May 24, 2013: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s statement during an interview to a magazine indicating at the government’s plans to bring the Udupi Sri Krishna Mutt as well as the Gokarna Temple under it’s control, has stirred a hornet’s nest.

Already,  opposition is heard from several quarters of the BJP against the move. It may be recalled here that  even Pejawar Seer, soon after the government took charge had hoped that the CM would  adhere to Rajadharma and not take over the Mutt’s control.

But the CM’s recent statement  is proving otherwise. The CM in his interview had told that the Udupi Krishna Mutt and Gokarna Temple belonged to the people and therefore should be brought under government control. MP Nalin Kumar Kateel has already filed strong exception to the CM’s statement and has urged him to respect the sentiments of the people. He also warned that the BJP may have to take to the streets if the government goes ahead with its plans.

Even former CM DV Sadananda Gowda has voiced his protest saying such a move  was not a good development. He has also urged the CM to take cognizance of public opinion before making any such move.

Udupi District BJP President Udaykumar Shetty too  has opposed the CM’s statement and  said though there were no plans of a protest as of now, protests will follow if the government goes ahead with its decision.

If Pejawar seer was not available for comments, a confidante of Raghaveshwara Bharathi Swamiji of Ramachandrapur Mutt said they would not like to comment as of now but would wait and watch the developments.