Himachal Pradesh High Court Rules Temple Funds Belong to Deities, Not Government

Court's Landmark Decision on Temple Fund Management

Court says offerings belong to the deity, not the state; temples must display income and audit details publicly

Shimla: In a significant ruling aimed at enhancing transparency in temple administration, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has determined that temple funds cannot be regarded as state revenue or redirected for public projects.

The court emphasized that all offerings and donations made by worshippers are the property of the deity, rather than belonging to the government or any individual trustee.

A Division Bench comprising Justice Vivek Singh Thakur and Justice Rakesh Kainthla, while addressing the case of Kashmir Chand vs State of Himachal Pradesh, established stringent guidelines under the Hindu Public Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Act of 1984. The court condemned any misuse of temple funds as a form of “criminal superstition” and mandated that any misappropriated funds be reclaimed from the accountable trustee or individual.

Restrictions on Temple Fund Usage

‘Temple money is not for bridges or VIP gifts’

The Bench clearly delineated the distinction between religious expenditures and public spending, asserting that temple income cannot be allocated for state infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, or government buildings. Additionally, it cannot be redirected for government welfare initiatives, personal benefits, or private business ventures.

Even minor gestures, such as purchasing gifts, shawls, or dry fruits for visiting dignitaries, have been prohibited. The court also banned the use of temple funds for activities related to other religions or for interfaith and political events.

To promote transparency, every temple is required to publicly display its monthly income, audit reports, and expenditure summaries on notice boards or official websites.

Permitted Uses of Temple Funds

31 approved areas for use of temple money

However, the High Court has permitted the use of temple funds in 31 designated areas, including education, preservation of religious traditions, social reform, pilgrim welfare, and cultural promotion. The court noted that temples have historically served as centers for learning, art, and social harmony, and should continue to operate in alignment with Hindu values of inclusivity and equality.

In a notable remark, the court encouraged temple authorities to support inter-caste marriage initiatives, viewing it as a moral step toward combating discrimination. Citing examples from Indian mythology, such as Shantanu-Satyavati and Dushyant-Shakuntala, the Bench reminded society that such unions were once celebrated in India’s progressive cultural history.

The Economic Impact of Temple Funds

Rs 361 crore collected by 12 major temples in a decade

The significance of the temple economy in Himachal Pradesh highlights the importance of the court's ruling. According to a 2018 report from the Department of Language, Art and Culture, 12 major temples in the state amassed Rs 361 crore from 2008 to 2017.

These temples include Brajeshwari Devi (Kangra), Shoolini Devi (Solan), Hanogi Mata (Mandi), Mahamrityunjay (Mandi), Thakurdwara (Paonta Sahib), Bhimakali (Sarahan), Jakhu Hanuman, Tara Devi, and Sankat Mochan (Shimla), Baba Balak Nath (Deotsidh), Jawalamukhi, and Ram Gopal (Kangra).