Mahakaleshwar temple official removed after controversy over VIP Entry

Mahakal Temple Ujjain

The Mahakaleshwar temple administration in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, removed an official after a controversy arose over the unauthorized entry of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s son, Shrikant Shinde, into the temple's sanctum sanctorum.

Shrikant, a Kalyan Lok Sabha member, was granted access on Thursday evening despite a ban on such entries, sources said.

The incident sparked criticism from the opposition Congress, with MLA Mahesh Parmar expressing discontent, stating, “While common devotees wait for hours, VIPs are allowed entry despite restrictions.”

In response, Ganesh Dhakad, the temple administrator, confirmed on Saturday that Vinod Chouksey, in charge of "darshan" arrangements, had been removed for negligence. Additionally, show-cause notices were issued to three security personnel. “Strict directives have been issued to prevent such incidents in the future,” Dhakad added.

Ujjain district collector and temple committee chairman, Neeraj Kumar Singh, emphasized that no one is allowed into the 'garbha griha' (sanctum sanctorum). He clarified, “Shrikant Shinde’s entry was unauthorized, and I have instructed the temple administrator to take immediate action.”

The Mahakaleshwar temple, one of the 12 jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, regularly draws large crowds of devotees who often wait in long queues for darshan.

(With inputs from PTI)