Complaint of a major scam at Siddhivinayak Temple; notice issued by the Law and Justice Department

Mumbai – Two trustees of the famous Siddhivinayak Temple and three complainants have made serious allegations of corruption and irregularities against Executive Officer Veena Patil and Deputy Executive Officer Sandeep Rathod. A complaint has been filed with the Law and Justice Department.

The officials have been accused of lack of transparency in administrative work, misuse of authority, and irregularities in financial transactions. In this context, the department has issued a notice asking both officers to provide an explanation within 7 days.

The Law and Justice Department has also directed the concerned officials to immediately submit:

·  All original documents related to the temple’s tender process

·  Minutes of tender subcommittee meetings

·  Records of decisions taken by the board of trustees

·  Important administrative orders issued

·  Contracts and agreements related to food and Mahaprasad

If the explanation is not satisfactory, strict administrative action may follow. The department has taken preliminary cognizance of the allegations and indicated a detailed investigation.

A few days ago, 8 employees were also arrested in connection with a theft case.

Editorial Perspective

This raises a serious question: Are the donations offered at the Holy feet of Shri Ganesh being used properly ? This is seen as a consequence of government control over temples. If temples were managed by devotees, such issues might not arise.