Karnataka Govt’s anti-Hindu bill to tax temples defeated in Legislative Council amidst chants of ‘Jai Sri Ram’

In a significant blow to the Congress-led government in Karnataka, a contentious bill proposing a 10 per cent tax on the income of temples with revenues exceeding Rs 1 crore was defeated in the state legislative council late this evening. This development follows the passage of the bill in the state assembly two days ago, marking a dramatic turn of events in the ongoing political saga.

The bill, titled the ‘Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowment Amendment Bill 2024,’ stirred widespread controversy in Karnataka, with the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) branding it as an assault on Hindu interests. The proposed legislation triggered a heated debate, fueling accusations of ‘Anti-Hindu’ policies against the ruling Congress government.

The defeat of the bill in the legislative council comes as a consequence of the National Democratic Alliance, led by the BJP, wielding more numbers than the ruling government in the upper house. The BJP, with 35 members, enjoys a numerical advantage over the Congress, which holds 30 seats in the council. Additionally, eight members belong to the Janata Dal (Secular) [JD(S)], and there is one independent candidate, with one seat vacant.

Under the provisions of the bill, temples generating revenues exceeding Rs 1 crore were liable to pay a 10 per cent tax, while those with revenues between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 1 crore were to pay 5 per cent. The Karnataka government defended the amendments, asserting that they aimed to enhance the financial sustainability of smaller temples and support their upkeep.

State ministers Ramalinga Reddy and Dinesh Gundu Rao vehemently defended the bill against criticism from the BJP. Reddy accused the BJP of being “anti-Hindu,” pointing out that the amendments were initially introduced in 2011 when the BJP was in power.

The opposition, consisting mainly of the BJP, expressed concerns over the proposed taxation on temple revenues, arguing that it would adversely affect religious institutions. After extensive discussions, the opposition agreed to support the bill only if suggested changes were incorporated.

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, representing the government, requested time until Monday to discuss the proposed changes with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, citing the financial implications of the amendments. However, Council Deputy Chairperson M.K. Pranesh declined to postpone the decision and proceeded to put the bill to a vote.

In a surprising turn, the bill was defeated during the voting process, marking a setback for the Congress-led government. Following the defeat, BJP lawmakers erupted in chants of ‘Jai Sri Ram,’ signalling a moment of triumph for the opposition.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasised that the bill was designed to benefit temples, particularly smaller ones, and criticised the BJP for attempting to mislead the public.

Meanwhile, former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa questioned the selective targeting of Hindu temples for taxation, igniting further debate on the contentious issue.

Responding to the allegations, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah dismissed claims of religious bias in the amendments, condemning attempts to polarise society along communal lines for political gain.

The defeat of the bill underscores the deep-seated ideological divisions and political manoeuvring within Karnataka’s legislative landscape, setting the stage for further confrontations between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP.