New Delhi, September 12 (Daily Kiran) : Central Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to advocate for the Mahabodhi Mahavihar in Bodh Gaya to be handed over to the Buddhist community.
Leading a delegation of Buddhist monks, Athawale visited Shah’s residence in New Delhi. The delegation included prominent figures such as Bhante Karunananda Mahathero, Bhante Dr. Rahul Bodhi Mahathero, Bhante Jyoti Thero, and Bhante Anand.
Athawale emphasized that the Mahabodhi Mahavihar is a sacred site where Lord Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. He described it as the foremost center of faith for Buddhists worldwide, asserting that its management should solely be in the hands of the Buddhist community.
He stated that Buddhists across the country demand that the chairman and all trustees of the Mahabodhi Mahavihar be followers of Buddhism. This request is not against any other religion but is focused on ensuring that the management of Buddhism’s holiest site is entrusted to its practitioners.
During the meeting, the delegation urged Shah to amend the Mahabodhi Vihar Temple Act, 1949, as passed by the Bihar Assembly. They expressed that the Buddhist community has long sought the “liberation” of Mahabodhi Mahavihar and its management.
Athawale conveyed that a positive decision from the central government regarding this demand would send a strong message to Buddhists nationwide, who would welcome such a resolution.
The discussion also covered the history of the Mahabodhi Mahavihar, its current management, and the community’s aspirations. Amit Shah assured the delegation that all historical and legal aspects related to the issue would be thoroughly examined before making an appropriate decision.
Previously, Athawale had raised this matter with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and had recently written to him requesting a meeting with the delegation advocating for the Mahabodhi Mahavihar liberation movement. Following the Prime Minister’s advice, the Buddhist delegation met with Shah to discuss the issue.
Athawale expressed hope that the central government would consider the sentiments of the Buddhist community and take positive steps toward resolving this matter.
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