After being stuck in limbo for over two months, Karnataka’s contentious temple tax bill has finally been forwarded to President Droupadi Murmu for her assent. The legislation, which seeks to bring temple revenues under state tax purview, has sparked sharp debates between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP.
The Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was passed by the state legislature earlier this year but ran into a roadblock at the Raj Bhavan. Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, instead of giving his nod, referred it to the President, citing constitutional concerns and the sensitive nature of religious matters.
The Congress government, led by CM Siddaramaiah, has argued that the bill promotes transparency and accountability in temple funds. However, BJP leaders claim it interferes with religious freedom and allege the state is attempting to “control Hindu temples.”
This move to escalate the bill to the President has only intensified the political storm in the state. Congress has accused the BJP of using the Governor’s office for political gains, while BJP defends the referral as constitutionally sound and necessary.
Now, with the bill at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the final call rests with President Murmu. The outcome may not only impact temple management in Karnataka but could also set a precedent for religious legislation across India.
