Priests’ federation condemns smear campaign on social media

BENGALURU: Of late, there has been a rise in the misuse of social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube. Some individuals have been using these platforms to make insulting or derogatory remarks about temple priests.

One such individual, Nagaraj Kotturu, posted a video on YouTube making defamatory remarks about priests, saying that they are making money in the name of God.

In response, the Akhila Bharatha Asanghatita Purohitha Karmikara Federation (All India Unorganised Priests’ Federation) has condemned the video and demanded that Nagaraj apologize and delete the video. It said priests are dedicating their lives in the servitude of gods and performing rituals for the welfare of the people.

Federation’s president Srinivas Murthy demanded the YouTube user to retract his statements and apologise for hurting the sentiments of the priest community. Furthermore, the federation has filed a complaint with the Basavanagudi police station against Nagaraj and others who have been posting derogatory comments (remarks) about priests on social media.

Over 70 priests have signed the complaint, urging the police to take stern action against those who are misusing social media to disparage priests and their service.