AIADMK functionary and former Member of Parliament M.Ramadass has called for revoking the government decision to dispose of the unused and encroached temple lands.
Memorandum
In a memorandum to the Lieutenant Governor A.K.Singh, Dr. Ramadass termed the decision of the government as ill-conceived and one that deserved to be withdrawn forthwith.
The Government of Puducherry is not the owner of the temple lands to derive intrinsic and inherent rights and powers to vend as it deemed it fit, he said.
Wish of proprietors
“Numerous large hearted devotees and pious philanthropists who had donated the lands to various temples are the real proprietors and their will and wish have to prevail in this matter.
Purpose
There was an explicit or implicit purpose behind every endowment of land and the proceeds accruing thereon, such as conservation, restoration and renovation works for the temple, performing poojas, celebration of certain festivals and religious rituals, providing free educational service or charity, feeding pilgrims and mendicants ”, said Dr. Ramadass.
