Bengaluru: Some 4,170 (or, 12%) of 34,566 notified temples across 237 taluks in Karnataka are missing, according to a state-wide survey undertaken by the muzrai department to verify the physical existence of these shrines. District-wise data shows Belagavi accounts for the highest number of missing or unidentified temples at 1,788, followed by Gadag at 515, Raichur 275, Udupi 235, Yadgir 172 and Chamarajanagar 142.The exercise was prompted by a survey conducted six years ago which highlighted the absence of comprehensive and reliable data on temples under the muzrai department. Officials said this led the department to launch a physical verification of temples to reconcile records with ground realities.
However, muzrai minister Ramalinga Reddy attributed this mismatch to “reclassification of district boundaries”.The survey findings have emerged in the backdrop of efforts to streamline tasdik (honorarium) money payments to temple priests. Sources said introduction of Aadhaar-enabled payments blew the lid off multiple irregularities. In several cases, more than one priest was found to be drawing payments for a single temple, while in others, the same priest had claimed tasdik money for multiple temples.“It was during this verification of beneficiaries we began to notice that several temples mentioned in records were not traceable at all,” said the official.The survey began in 2020 and is still going on. To verify the existence of temples and their associated landholdings, officials are cross-checking records against gazette notifications issued under the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowment Act, 1997.In cases where temples are found to be missing, village accountants and revenue inspectors are required to submit detailed reports, certified by the tahsildars, to the muzrai commissioner. These reports form the basis for further administrative action.Where temple land is found to have been encroached upon, the department attempts to restore it following a multi-step process. This includes verification by the tahsildar, preparation of a mahazar, and eviction by the competent authority.“The department is committed to restoring temple properties wherever encroachments are established,” said Rajender Kataria, vice-chairman of the Dharmik Parishad. Officials said the ongoing survey is expected to help clean up records, prevent leakages in payments, and protect temple assets across the state.++++QuoteIn case of encroachments, we follow the due process of the law: Conduct surveys, issue notices, initiate eviction proceedings. If encroachments are established, appropriate action is taken to restore such properties— Rajender Kataria | vice-chairman of the Dharmik Parishad.+++This is mainly due to reclassification of district boundaries, taking their number from 20 to 31. Discrepancies in survey numbers are being identified and rectified. Around 20,000 properties have been identified, while the remaining cases are pending—- Ramalinga Reddy | muzrai minister
