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Temple Gate Shut: Priests Protest Alleged Police Misconduct
17 Feb
Summary
- Temple priests protested by closing the main gate for four hours.
- Allegations of police misconduct occurred during Maha Shivratri.
- The accused ASI has been reassigned pending an investigation.
Tensions rose in Jaipur's walled city on Monday after priests at the Tadkeshwar Mahadev Temple closed the main gate for four hours. This action followed an alleged incident of police misconduct on Sunday during Maha Shivratri festivities.
The protest stemmed from accusations against Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Suresh Sharma, who purportedly misbehaved with temple priests and devotees while managing crowds. Priests demanded ASI Sharma's immediate suspension.
Negotiations between temple representatives and police concluded with authorities requesting three days to decide on further action. Priests warned of escalated protests if their demands were not met within the timeframe.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Karan Sharma confirmed ASI Sharma's reassignment from Manak Chowk police station to office duties pending an investigation. Assistant Commissioner of Police Surendra Singh Ranawat is leading the probe into the complaint.
A priest recounted that during a ritual, ASI Sharma allegedly pulled devotees, resulting in injuries. The temple was briefly closed Sunday evening, and the main gate was shut again Monday from noon to 4pm, with a smaller gate remaining open.
