New Delhi, April 2 Samajwadi Party leader Ramji Lal Suman raised the issue of the administration of the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha, demanding that its management be handed over to followers of Buddhism.
"The Mahabodhi Temple is a site of international importance. It is believed to be the place where Lord Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment and has been recognized as a World Heritage Site," Suman said, noting that approximately 55 crore people – nearly 7 per cent of the world's population – follow Buddhism.
Drawing a pointed parallel with the management of other religious institutions, Suman asked: "Is there a Muslim member in the administration committee of the Ayodhya Temple? Is there a Sikh? Is there a Christian?"
He argued that the administration of religious places is conventionally entrusted to people of the same faith, and said the same principle should apply to the Mahabodhi Temple.
Expressing concern over financial management, he said the temple generates significant revenue but raised questions about the administration of its funds.
Suman also urged the government to rename the airport in Gaya – an internationally significant pilgrimage destination – after Lord Gautama Buddha, calling it a matter of both cultural recognition and religious sentiment.
The Mahabodhi Temple Management Act, 1949, currently governs the temple's administration through a committee that includes both Buddhist and non-Buddhist members, a provision that has long been a point of contention for Buddhist groups across the country.