The Bharatiya Janata Party-BJP has launched scathing criticism against the Congress Government in Karnataka, labelling it as “anti-Hindu” following the passage of the ‘Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Bill 2024’ in the State Assembly. This bill permits the government to levy a 10 per cent tax on temples generating revenues exceeding ₹1 crore, and a 5 per cent tax on those earning between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore.
Karnataka BJP president Vijayendra Yediyurappa condemned the move, accusing the Congress Government of targeting Hindu temples to replenish its depleted finances by “adopting consistently anti-Hindu policies in the State” and of taking “a crooked look at the revenue of Hindu temples.” He argued that diverting temple funds for other purposes would be a betrayal of devotees’ trust and could lead to unrest among believers.
Yediyurappa raised concerns over the selective targeting of Hindu temples, questioning why other religious institutions were not subjected to similar taxation measures. He accentuated the sacred significance of temple offerings and underlined the importance of utilising them for temple maintenance and devotees’ welfare.
In response, Karnataka Minister Ramalinga Reddy challenged the BJP’s allegations by highlighting the Congress’ track record of supporting Hindu temples and addressing their financial needs.
