120-Year-Old Shiva Temple in Amethi Uncovered After Alleged 20 Years of Illegal Occupation
A 120-year-old Pancha Shikhar Shiva Temple was discovered in Aurangabad village, Amethi. The temple, reportedly occupied by local Muslims for the last 20 years, has sparked anger among the Hindu community. Villagers claim they were barred from worshipping at the temple during this period.
A Place of Worship Lost to Occupation Amethi
The temple, built over a century ago by a Dalit family, was once a prominent center of faith for the villagers. However, locals allege that they were stopped from performing religious rituals for the past two decades. This long-standing issue came to light when BJP District General Secretary Atul Singh, along with villagers, submitted a formal complaint to SDM Preeti Tiwari on Monday.
“The Pancha Shikhar Shiva Temple is part of our heritage. For years, we were denied access to perform pooja. This must be corrected immediately,” said Atul Singh.
Investigation Underway
In response to the complaint, SDM Preeti Tiwari assigned the investigation to the Tehsildar. “We are investigating the matter thoroughly. Appropriate action will follow after the report is submitted,” she assured. The villagers now await action to reclaim their place of worship.
अमेठी से बड़ी खबर
20 साल से मंदिर पर कब्जा
अल्पसंख्यक समुदाय के लोगों पर आरोप
SDM से की शिकायत
120 साल पुराना है मंदिर #Temple #Action #ZeeUPUK @JpSharmaLive pic.twitter.com/4szmFxK6n9— Zee Uttar Pradesh Uttarakhand (@ZEEUPUK) December 24, 2024
https://www.aajtak.in/
Similar Cases Raise Questions
This discovery in Amethi adds to a series of similar incidents in Uttar Pradesh. Recently, temples were found in Sambhal, Varanasi, Aligarh, and Bulandshahr, with reports of illegal occupation or concealment. Such cases suggest a worrying trend of suppressing India’s religious heritage.
Sambhal Operation Reveals Hidden Shiva Temple Closed for 46 Years
Hindu leaders have called for a broader investigation to uncover how many temples might have been hidden or occupied unlawfully. “How many more temples like this remain concealed? The truth must come out,” said a local activist.
A Deliberate Effort?
Activists claim that such actions might be part of a calculated effort to erase cultural landmarks. Reports suggest some Islamist groups might be intentionally hiding temples to weaken Hindu cultural identity. The allegations have heightened calls for unity among Hindus to protect their heritage.
Preserving India’s Cultural Heritage
This incident emphasizes the urgent need to document and protect religious sites across India. Legal measures and public awareness are crucial to preventing further encroachments. The Hindu community in Amethi hopes this case will lead to justice and restoration.
The discovery of the 120-year-old Pancha Shikhar Shiva Temple is more than just a local issue. It reflects the broader challenge of preserving India’s cultural and religious heritage. Action by authorities and collective vigilance by communities are key to addressing such concerns.