The Himachal Pradesh government will soon move a review petition in the High Court challenging the stay on the use of Temple Trust funds for civil works, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri informed the Vidhan Sabha on Wednesday.
He was responding during Zero Hour to concerns raised by MLA Randhir Sharma, who highlighted financial hurdles in constructing a hospital in the Naina Devi Assembly constituency. Sharma pointed out that budgetary constraints were slowing the project and suggested that Temple Trust funds could be utilised for the purpose.
Agnihotri clarified that the High Court has currently barred the use of Temple Trust funds for civil construction activities. While the court directed that the Trust’s money should be spent for the convenience of devotees, Sharma argued that building a hospital would also indirectly serve devotees visiting the shrine.
The Deputy Chief Minister assured the House that the government would examine the matter and extend all possible support, but reiterated that until the court order is reviewed, Temple Trust funds cannot be used for the proposed civil works.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
