Hindu groups want bars, liquors stores near temples to be closed

BENGALURU: Despite a ban, there are liquor stores, bars and gutka shops in the vicinity of muzrai temples as the rules are not strictly implemented. Hindu organisations have now decided to appeal to the government for strict implementation of the rules near muzrai temples, like the UP model, across the state.

Mohan Gowda of Hindu Janajagriti Samiti said the countdown has begun for the consecration ceremony at Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and the Uttar Pradesh government has issued a strict order to ban liquor, gutka and cigarette sales in the vicinity of the temple. “Even in Karnataka, there is an order to ban such shops within 100 metres of the muzrai temples, but it is not being strictly followed. Thus, Hindu organisations have decided to meet Minister Ramalinga Reddy and appeal to him to implement those rules”, he said.

“People have complained that there are meat shops and liquor stores near temples, which hurt the feelings of Hindu devotees. We are demanding the government to implement Uttar Pradesh’s model and impose a ban on the sale of alcohol and meat in the vicinity of muzrai temples. It is the duty of not only the government, but also every citizen to maintain the sanctity around the temple. So this law needs to be strictly enforced”, Mohan Gowda stressed.