Karnataka govt passes bill to tax wealthy temples: A move towards equity or anti-hindu?

The Karnataka state government has passed the 'Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Bill 2024', which grants the government authority to levy taxes on temples generating substantial revenues. Under this legislation, temples with revenues surpassing Rs 1 crore will be subject to a 10% tax, while those generating income ranging between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 1 crore will face a 5% levy.

Minister Ramalinga Reddy defended the decision, asserting that the move aims to address the financial disparities among temples and ensure equitable distribution of resources. He emphasized, "We are not anti-Hindu. Actually, BJP is anti-Hindu...This Act came into existence in 2003. In 2011, they made some amendments...At that time, up to Rs 5 Lakhs, there were about 34,000 temples - they did not give any money for Dharmika Parishad."

Reddy further elucidated on the amendments made in 2011, highlighting the lack of financial contribution from temples falling within certain revenue brackets. "From Rs 5 Lakhs to Rs 10 Lakhs, there are about 193 'B grade' temples - they have to give 5%. More than Rs 10 Lakhs, there are about 205 temples - they have to give 10%," he stated, underlining the historical precedent set by the previous administration.

The Minister emphasized that the amendments were not intended to undermine Hindu religious institutions but rather to channel funds towards the development and upkeep of temples across various tiers. He remarked, "In the interest of the most neglected 'C grade' temples in Karnataka...if I give Rs 2-3 Lakhs, they can repair, reconstruct. This is the idea."