If liquor shops can be opened, why not temples, says Akhara Parishad

Prayagraj: After the Kashi Vidvat Parishad on May 4 demanded opening of temples in the state for devotees, the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP) — the apex decision-making body of 13 akharas representing thousands of seers and saints — has said it would write to the Prime Minister, Home Minister and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister to allow reopening of temples in the state.
“If the Centre can decide to open the liquor shops, what’s wrong in opening of temples if we follow the concept of social distancing, at least devotees would pray to almighty to help the nation in the present crisis,” ABAP president Mahant Narendra Giri told TOI on Wednesday while demanding reopening of temples across the state.
In the presence of chief patron of Juna Akhara, Mahant Hari Giri, ABAP president said on behalf of parishad chief they would soon send letters to PM Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in this regard.
Juna akhara is the largest of the 13 akharsa of the country with presence in every corner of the country.
Mahant Narendra Giri said that it has been almost two months since the temples have been closed due to the corona crisis. “The temple managements are finding it difficult to pay the salaries of priests and other staff members, who look after the temples as temples are closed for almost two months now,” said Mahant Narendra Giri. He added, “The government should understand that it is not only the temple staff but the temples also support many families that are facing hardships.” He assured that if temples are allowed to open, the management, saints and even devotees would ensure that all safety protocol.