Karnataka HC refuses to stay govt takeover of Gali Anjaneya Temple amid graft allegations
Bengaluru, Jul 16 (PTI): The Karnataka High Court on Wednesday declined to grant a stay on the state government's decision to take control of the renowned Gali Anjaneya Temple, following allegations of corruption and administrative irregularities by its managing trust.
Justice Sunil Dutt Yadav heard a petition filed by the temple's trustees challenging the takeover order.
The trust, represented by advocate P Prasanna Kumar, accused the government of acting without due process or a detailed inquiry into the temple's internal affairs.
The temple's legal counsel argued that the move was precipitate and based on incomplete data. He asserted that the trust had submitted the necessary records as required and claimed the government acted without considering the documents in full.
Countering these claims, the government's counsel alleged that the temple trust had not provided satisfactory responses to repeated requests for financial and administrative records.
"Over the last 19 years, the income has been entirely shown as expenditure, with no proper documentation. Not a single financial record has been submitted. Devotees have welcomed the Muzrai Department's decision to step in," the government lawyer stated.
The state also pointed to a recent theft from the temple's donation box as evidence of poor management. While two individuals were dismissed and an FIR was filed, authorities noted that a year later, no charge sheet had been filed, raising further concerns about the trust's functioning.
A report by an assistant commissioner flagged not only the theft incident, but also internal discord among trust members. The inquiry highlighted widespread dissatisfaction among the devotees, with growing concerns expressed on social media. These findings prompted the Muzrai Department to issue an official order taking over temple management.
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MEA reports more than 200 Indians enlisted in Russian military since 2022; 26 deaths confirmed
More than 200 Indian nationals have joined the Russian armed forces since 2022, with 26 are confirmed dead, MEA—The Ministry of External Affairs have informed the Upper house of the Parliament: Rajya Sabha.
In a written response, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, has stated that at least 202 Indians are reported to have joined the Russian army. Among these recruited personnels, 26 have lost their lives; while, seven individuals have been reported missing by Russian authorities. He added that the remains of two deceased Indian nationals were cremated in Russia.
Singh noted that the sustained diplomatic efforts by the Indian government have led to the early discharge of 119 individuals. He further added that the discussions are going smoothly with the Russians to secure the release of the remaining personnel, with efforts underway to facilitate the early discharge of 50 more Indian nationals.
According to the minister, the Union government is in contact with Russian authorities to ensure the safety, welfare, and prompt return of Indian citizens serving in the Russian army. The issue, he said, is being addressed at multiple levels, including interactions between senior leaders, ministers, and officials of both countries.
The said disclosure was made in response to queries raised by Saket Gokhale, the MP of Trinamool Congress, and Randeep Singh Surjewala, the MP of INC, regarding the number of Indians allegedly recruited into the military service in Russia; Along with the details of deaths and missing persons reported since 2022.
