Varanasi: The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust issued a statement on Friday (17th February), refuting claims that Rahul Gandhi performed Puja inside the Vishwanath Mandir’s Garbhgrih. The trust clarified that there is no active position of “Mahant” at the temple and dismissed allegations of restricting cameras during Gandhi's purported visit.
The press note emphasized that Mahant Rajendra Tiwari, who claimed association with the temple, holds no official position therein. Gandhi's visit, part of his “Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,” was subject to misleading reports on social and electronic media regarding his alleged entry into the temple's inner sanctum facilitated by Tiwari.
— Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust (@ShriVishwanath) February 17, 2024
The trust highlighted that only appointed priests conduct rituals within the Garbhgrih as per the directives of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir Nyas. Additionally, it clarified that no designated “Mahant” exists at the temple, nor is one appointed. Reports suggesting Tiwari's involvement in conducting Puja inside the temple premises were deemed erroneous.
Furthermore, the temple administration urged media outlets to refrain from disseminating such reports or videos without official statements from the Nyas.
Congress's Accusations and Tiwari's Response
The press note followed Congress's accusations against the temple administration for allegedly denying access to their camera personnel inside the Garbhgrih. Congress claimed that although they had permission for a personal cameraperson, it was revoked last minute.
आज सवेरे करीब 10.30 बजे @RahulGandhi जी ने काशी में बाबा विश्वनाथ मंदिर में दर्शन और अभिषेक किया।
— Congress (@INCIndia) February 17, 2024
अंतिम क्षण पर मंदिर में जाने के लिए हमारे कैमरा को मिली अनुमति निरस्त कर दी गई।
ज़िला प्रशासन ने आश्वस्त किया कि मंदिर के कैमरापर्सन द्वारा फोटो साझा की जाएगी।
साढ़े तीन घंटे तक…
In response, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary criticized Congress, labeling them as corrupt individuals who seek self-promotion.
Rajendra Tiwari, purportedly the former Mahant of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, claimed to have conducted Puja for Rahul Gandhi. Tiwari, known for controversial statements, asserted that religion was a significant topic for Gandhi and invited him to Delhi for further discussions.
However, Tiwari's association with the temple has been disputed. He has previously made contradictory statements regarding the presence of a Shivling in the Gyanvapi's disputed structure.
Tiwari's family was involved in a legal battle with the UP government over temple ownership rights. Since the redevelopment project initiated by the Modi government, Tiwari and his followers have criticized the demolition of old temples in the temple premises.
The trust's statement aims to clarify misinformation surrounding Gandhi's visit and reaffirm the temple's adherence to established protocols and procedures.
Aam Aadmi Party's Response to PM Modi's Statement on Winning 370 Lok Sabha Seats
Five Injured in House Fire Due to Short Circuit in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh
