Supreme Court Approves Use of Banke Bihari Temple Fund for Vrindavan Corridor Land Acquisition

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has given its nod to the use of ₹500 crore from the Banke Bihari Temple fund for the acquisition of land required for the development of the Vrindavan Corridor. This much-anticipated corridor aims to enhance infrastructure and facilitate smoother access for the growing number of devotees visiting the historic town of Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh.

The court’s decision clears the way for the Uttar Pradesh government to proceed with land acquisition, a critical step in the execution of the mega religious project. However, the apex court has imposed a vital safeguard to protect the sanctity and ownership rights of the temple. It mandated that all acquired land must be registered solely in the name of the deity Banke Bihari Ji or the associated temple trust, and not under the government or any other authority.

This condition is seen as a strategic move to ensure that the temple’s interests remain protected while also supporting developmental efforts that could potentially boost religious tourism in the region.

The judgment has been welcomed warmly by the spiritual community of Vrindavan. Saints and seers from various ashrams and religious institutions have expressed their gratitude, viewing the court’s decision as a balance between spiritual heritage and infrastructural progress. Many believe that the Vrindavan Corridor will not only ease the heavy pilgrim traffic but will also preserve the sanctity of the temple by providing a well-planned and organized space for devotees.

The Vrindavan Corridor project, modeled on the lines of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi, has been in discussion for quite some time. It is expected to transform the temple town into a more accessible and pilgrim-friendly destination.

With the Supreme Court’s green light and the assurance of proper ownership registration, the project is likely to gain momentum, marking a significant milestone in the fusion of faith and modern planning.