Puttur, August 3, 2026: Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has extended its full support for the overall development of Sri Mahalingeshwara Temple, Puttur, while urging the temple administration to ensure transparency and involve devotees in all major decisions related to the proposed development works.
A delegation of VHP leaders submitted a memorandum to the temple administration on Monday, expressing concern over reports of a proposed road through temple land and the demolition of structures as part of the redevelopment project.
The organisation clarified that it is not opposed to the temple's development. Instead, it said every project should protect the temple's traditions, preserve devotees' religious sentiments and be implemented only after consulting stakeholders.
VHP also sought clarity on the demolition of the Nataraja Stage and the adjoining structure. It requested details on whether the work was carried out according to prescribed legal procedures, whether the tender process was followed and whether the proceeds from the dismantled materials had been deposited into the temple's accounts.
Key Demands
1. Full support for temple development
VHP reiterated that it fully supports the comprehensive development of Sri Mahalingeshwara Temple.
2. Protect the temple's sanctity
Development works should not hurt devotees' religious sentiments or affect the temple's heritage and sacred character.
3. No public road through temple land
The organisation opposed any proposal to construct a public road through land belonging to the temple under the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Department.
4. No objection to an alternative road
VHP said it has no objection to constructing a road from the Madivalakatte side to provide access to Hindu residential areas.
5. Consult devotees before road projects
If a road is necessary as part of the temple development plan, devotees should first be taken into confidence.
6. Hold a public consultation
The temple administration should organise an open meeting with devotees, local residents and other stakeholders before finalising development plans.
7. Make project details public
The administration should disclose the complete development plan, layout, estimated project cost and other relevant information.
8. Clarify demolition procedures
Details of the demolition of the Nataraja Stage and related structures, including the tender process and the utilisation of revenue from dismantled materials, should be made public.
9. Resume daily Tri-Kala Puja for the Naga deity
VHP demanded that the relocated Naga deity should receive regular Tri-Kala Puja every day.
10. Complete Ayyappa temple within six months
The organisation urged the administration to complete the construction of the Ayyappa Swamy Temple within six months and announce a clear timeline.
11. Daily worship for Navagraha deities
Regular Tri-Kala Puja should be conducted for the Navagraha deities.
12. Ensure Theertha and Prasada throughout the day
Permanent arrangements should be made so that devotees visiting the Navagraha shrine receive Theertha and Prasada throughout the day.
13. Take major decisions with devotees' conse
nt
VHP said important decisions concerning the temple's future should be taken only after consulting devotees and arriving at a collective decision.
The memorandum was submitted by a delegation of VHP office-bearers to the Sri Mahalingeshwara Temple administration, urging it to adopt a transparent and participatory approach to all future development works.
Keywords
Puttur Mahalingeshwara Temple, VHP Memorandum, Temple Development, Puttur Temple Road, Dakshina Kannada News, Citizen News Puttur,
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