India

BJP Criticizes Karnataka Government’s 10 Percent Temple Tax as “Anti-Hindu”

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Congress government in Karnataka of being “anti-Hindu” following the passing of the ‘Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Bill 2024’ in the state assembly on Wednesday.

The bill grants the government authority to levy a 10 percent tax on temples generating revenues exceeding ₹1 crore, and a 5 percent tax on those with revenues ranging between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore.

Vijayendra Yediyurappa, Karnataka BJP President, criticized the Congress government’s motives, alleging that it aims to bolster its finances through policies detrimental to Hindu interests. “The Congress government, which persistently pursues anti-Hindu policies in the state, has now turned its attention towards the revenue of Hindu temples by passing the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments bill to fill its coffers,” he stated.

Also Read: Farmers Suspend Delhi March for 2 Days After Fatal Protest Incident, 5 Key Points

He expressed concerns over the usage of collected funds, arguing that they should be exclusively allocated for temple renovation and devotee welfare. Yediyurappa questioned the targeting of Hindu temples exclusively, without similar measures being applied to other religious institutions.

In response, Karnataka Minister Ramalinga Reddy accused the BJP of politicizing religion. He affirmed Congress’s commitment to Hinduism, citing past efforts in safeguarding temples and Hindu interests. Reddy also questioned the BJP’s track record during its tenure, suggesting neglect of Hindu religious institutions’ revenues despite existing legislation.

The debate underscores the ongoing political tensions surrounding religious policies in Karnataka, with each party positioning itself as the guardian of Hindu interests while accusing the other of neglect or discrimination.

Naiteek Bhatt

Recent Posts

UAE Expands Visa-On-Arrival Policy For Indian Citizens To Boost Bilateral Ties

Under the revised rules, Indian passport holders with valid residence permits from Australia, Canada, Japan,…

2 hours ago

India’s Flavours, Culture & Heritage To Grace New York At ‘NMACC India Weekend’

India is all set to bring its essence of aroma, taste, and culture to the…

3 hours ago

Home Minister Amit Shah Rules Out Talks With Maoists Holding Weapons

Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to end Naxalism by 31 March…

3 hours ago

Gold, Silver Prices Fall Sharply This Week; Global Trends, Geopolitical Easing Behind Dip

There is some relief for buyers as gold and silver prices dropped notably this week.…

4 hours ago

Ethanol Blending Boosts Farmers’ Income, Saves Rs 1.36 Lakh Crore In Forex: Hardeep Puri

India’s ethanol blending programme has reduced the country's dependence on crude oil imports and increased…

5 hours ago

Two Dead, 7 Missing After Cloudburst In Uttarkashi; CM Dhami Says Rescue Ops Underway

The landslide struck near an under-construction hotel in Silai, along the Yamunotri National Highway. It…

5 hours ago