A legal battle unfolds as a follower of the historic Banke Bihari Temple petitions the Supreme Court against the Uttar Pradesh government’s ₹500 crore redevelopment plan, citing denial of fair hearing and heritage concerns.

Devotee Challenges Supreme Court Ruling on Banke Bihari Temple Redevelopment

A follower of the revered Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan has filed a petition in the Supreme Court of India seeking a revision of the recent verdict allowing the Uttar Pradesh government to utilize temple funds for a large-scale redevelopment project.

Background: Court Permits Use of Temple Funds for Corridor Project

On May 15, 2025, the Supreme Court granted permission for the UP government to use fixed deposits from the Banke Bihari Temple to acquire five acres of land surrounding the temple. The land is intended for the construction of a corridor aimed at enhancing pilgrim movement and temple infrastructure. The land, as per the order, must be registered under the deity’s name.

Petitioner Claims Lack of Representation and Fair Hearing

The petition was filed by Shebait and temple caretaker Devendra Nath Goswami, who asserts his direct lineage from Swami Sri Hari Das Ji, the original founder of the temple. Represented by Senior Advocate Amit Anand Tiwari, Goswami argued that the Supreme Court ruling was made ex parte, without his inclusion or opportunity to respond.

Goswami’s family has managed the temple’s day-to-day operations for over 500 years, preserving traditional rituals and customs. The petition contends that the court’s decision was made while related litigation was still pending in the Allahabad High Court.

Legal Concerns Over Redevelopment Approval

The petitioner pointed out that the state’s intervention application in the Supreme Court was filed in a separate Special Leave Petition, unrelated to the main case pending in Allahabad High Court (PIL No. 1509/2022). The plea argues this tactic bypassed due judicial process and denied participation to hereditary stakeholders actively involved in temple management.

Demands for Justice and Cultural Preservation

In the plea, the petitioner has requested the following:

Modification of Supreme Court Ruling (SLP Civil 29702 of 2024) to revoke paragraphs 19, 20, and 24 which allow fund utilization and land purchase without adequate consultation.

Stay on Redevelopment Execution, including any demolition or construction actions until the matter is fully adjudicated.

Formation of a Heritage and Stakeholder Consultation Committee to ensure a fair and inclusive planning process.

Protection of Religious and Cultural Legacy, urging the court to consider the temple’s historic, spiritual, and cultural significance before permitting irreversible changes.

Supreme Court Agrees to Review the Petition

Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih have agreed to list the case for hearing in the upcoming week. The outcome could shape not only the future of the Banke Bihari Temple but also set a precedent for the management of temple funds and religious heritage sites in India.

Conclusion: Balancing Development and Devotion

The petition against the UP government’s redevelopment plan for the Banke Bihari Temple highlights the critical need to balance infrastructural progress with the preservation of religious heritage. As the Supreme Court reconsiders its decision, the outcome will have lasting implications for temple governance, cultural legacy, and stakeholder rights across India.