In a landmark ruling on May 15, the Supreme Court permitted the Uttar Pradesh Government to utilize funds from the Shri Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan, for acquiring 5 acres of land around the temple as part of a ₹500 crore corridor development project. The Court emphasized that the acquired land must be registered in the name of the deity.
A bench comprising Justices Bela M. Trivedi and S.C. Sharma modified an earlier Allahabad High Court order that had prohibited the use of temple funds for land acquisition. The Court allowed the use of fixed deposits held in the temple’s name, noting the State’s extensive infrastructure plan aimed at improving safety and facilities for devotees.
“The Banke Bihari Ji Trust holds fixed deposits in the name of the Deity/Temple. We permit the State Government to utilize these funds for land acquisition, provided the land is registered in the name of the Deity/Trust,” the judgment stated.
The approval comes in the wake of the 2022 stampede at the temple and growing concerns over mismanagement of religious sites in the Braj region. Citing the Uttar Pradesh Braj Planning and Development Board Act, 2015, the Court highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades, including roads, parking, accommodation, hospitals, and sanitation.
The Court also stressed that preserving the spiritual and historical character of Mathura and Vrindavan requires coordinated efforts among the government, temple trusts, and local communities. Key sites like the Yamuna River, Kashi Ghat, Vishram Ghat, and Kusum Sarovar were noted as priorities for beautification and restoration.
Case Title: Ishwar Chanda Sharma vs. Devendra Kumar Sharma & Others
