Farmane-Ilahi

BODH GAYA (Web Desk) Protests have erupted across India, with Buddhists demanding exclusive control over the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, one of their holiest sites.

The temple, managed by an eight-member committee with equal Hindu and Buddhist representation under the Bodh Gaya Temple Act of 1949, has become the centre of contention.

Buddhist protesters, including monks, are demanding the repeal of the Bodh Gaya Temple Act, which gives Hindus a significant role in the management of the temple. They argue that Hindu rituals at the site contradict Buddhist traditions.

Tensions escalated when police removed Buddhist monks staging a hunger strike. While the temple was originally managed by Buddhists, Hindu monks have overseen it since the 16th century.

The current management structure, with equal representation from Hindus and Buddhists, has failed to resolve longstanding grievances.

Buddhist groups from across India are now joining the protests, accusing the government of ignoring their demands, while the Bodh Gaya Math defends its role in preserving the temple's heritage.

Despite years of petitions and legal appeals, including a pending Supreme Court case, no resolution has been reached, and the protests continue to grow in strength, with participants hopeful that their unified stance will lead to change.