Big Verdict on Sanwaliya Seth Temple’s Crores: Court Rules ‘Treasury’ to Stay with Devotees

Chittorgarh, Rajasthan: In a landmark ruling, the Civil Court of Chittorgarh has clarified the management of crores in donations at the famous Sanwaliya Seth Temple in Rajasthan. The court has decisively ruled that the temple’s funds cannot be diverted for political agendas or external development projects. The historic decision brings relief to devotees who had raised objections to the temple committee’s earlier plans.

Background of the Dispute

The controversy began in 2018, when the temple committee proposed contributing ₹18 crore from temple funds for the development of Matrikundia Tirth under a state government budget allocation. Devotees, including Madan Jain, Kailash Dad, and Shravan Tiwari, filed a public interest petition opposing the move, arguing that the temple’s funds should benefit devotees and improve facilities within the temple premises, rather than being used for external projects or political purposes.

Court’s Clear Directive

Presiding Judge Vikas Kumar issued a strong warning in his ruling. The court stated that:

• Temple funds are strictly for devotees’ welfare and cannot be used for political or external projects.
• The temple committee must adhere strictly to Section 28 of the 1992 Act.
• Any misuse will render responsible officials personally accountable, potentially resulting in criminal proceedings.
• The release of ₹18 crore for external projects has been temporarily suspended until further notice.

The court emphasized that the treasury of the temple belongs to devotees and must only be spent to meet their needs.

Devotees’ Concerns Finally Addressed

Petitioners highlighted that essential facilities—such as community kitchens, parking, sanitation, healthcare, and hospitals—remain underdeveloped despite the temple attracting millions of devotees. The court’s ruling ensures that priority will now be given to improving these facilities, rather than diverting funds to other religious sites or political schemes.

Impact on Funding External Institutions

In recent years, there had been growing pressure from political parties and social organizations to allocate temple funds to gaushalas (cow shelters) and other external religious institutions. Even ministers from previous and current state governments had made attempts in this direction. However, the court’s verdict has put a complete stop to such proposals, safeguarding the temple’s financial integrity.

Devotees Celebrate

The decision has been widely welcomed by the local community and devotees, who feel the temple’s wealth is now secure and prioritized for their welfare. There is renewed hope that funds will be channeled into cleanliness, free parking, healthcare, and local development projects.

A Precedent for Rajasthan Temples

Experts say this ruling is not limited to Sanwaliya Seth Temple but could serve as a benchmark for all religious institutions in Rajasthan. The court’s message is clear: Temple funds belong to devotees, not politicians or external entities. Devotees believe this historic judgment preserves both the sanctity and transparency of temple administration.