A probe has been ordered by the temple authorities against Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde’s son and Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde. This decision came after Shrikant Shinde was allowed entry into the sanctum sanctorum of Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Temple. Temple authorities have now claimed that no one is allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum or garba griha of the temple; this ban has been there for over a year now. It’s reported that Shiv Sena MP along with his wife and two others entered the garba griha of the temple and offered prayers on Thursday evening. Reports claimed that Shrikant was there for five minutes. As per the rules, only priests of the temple are allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum of Sri Mahakaleshwar Temple.
What Did The Authorities Say?
The video and photos have surfaced online and has sparked widespread controversy. The Indian Express quoted Neeraj Kumar Singh, Chairman of the temple committee and Ujjain District Collector who has taken cognizance of the matter and called for an immediate action by the temple authorities. Singh said, “Nobody is allowed to enter the garbha griha. This is an unauthorised entry and I have directed the temple administrator to take immediate action in this matter.”
According to reports, the temple authorities had implemented the ban a year ago for smooth arrangements for darshan.
Administrator of the temple, Ganesh Dhakad further informed that a probe has been ordered and action will be taken against the inspector responsible for handling entries and other aspects of the sanctum sanctorum.
Congress Criticises Shrikant Shinde
However, opposition has left no opportunity to criticise Shrikant Shinde over this matter. Congress has made a sharp criticism and objected the incident. They said that VIPs are allowed entry inside the sanctum sanctorum even after ban, but common people face difficulty even in getting ‘Darshan’ at the temple. They have to stand in queue for hours, added the Congress. Congress MLA Mahesh Parmar said that it is against the law and they totally oppose it.
Amid the controversy that has erupted after this incident, Shrikant Shinde has given back to the Congress’ criticism. He said, “The opposition gets an allergy even if we go to the temple. They don’t take darshan and stop others from doing so.”