BSRTC to hold meeting in January amid rising temple theft cases

Patna: The Bihar State Religious Trust Council (BSRTC) on Wednesday announced plans to convene a meeting with the office-bearers of managing committees from all registered Hindu temples and mutts in the state in the wake of a series of thefts at temples in different districts, notably the renowned Thawe Temple in Gopalganj district.This meeting, scheduled for the second week of January, aims to evaluate and enhance the security measures currently in place at these religious sites.Ranbir Nandan, the chairperson of BSRTC, emphasised the importance of this gathering, stating that the temple committees will be encouraged to propose strategies for improving security around prominent Hindu temples. The council, operating under the state's department of law, has also requested detailed reports on the financial resources allocated by these temples and mutts for security purposes.The recent thefts, including the Dec 17 incident where a gold crown and valuable jewellery were stolen from the Thawe Temple, have underscored the urgent need for improved security. Following this, another theft occurred at the Dharmnath Temple in Saran district, where thieves made off with gold jewellery and donation boxes. The police have since apprehended those responsible for the Thawe Temple theft.Nandan clarified that the BSRTC's request for financial details is solely for assessing security needs and does not involve the council in the daily management of temple resources.

With over 2,500 temples and mutts registered across Bihar's 38 districts, the council maintains records of their assets and oversees their activities.Additionally, the BSRTC is working on appointing conveners in each district to promote and propagate 'Sanatan Dharma' in collaboration with the managing committees of Hindu temples. This initiative aims to strengthen the cultural and spiritual fabric of the community while ensuring the safety and security of its sacred sites.