Varanasi residents protest against theft at famous Vishwanath Temple

Varanasi residents protest against theft at famous Vishwanath Temple

                                                    By Girish Kumar Dubey

October 27, 2010

Residents of Varanasi took out a rally in protest against the administration's failure to prevent a robbery at the famous Vishwanath Temple.

Sources said that a week ago, a traditional Indian silver Trident was stolen from the temple despite tight security.

The residents said this incident was unacceptable as the temple administration spends huge amounts of money for its safety and security.

"If things are stolen from somewhere else, it is a different matter. Despite tight security here at the temple, a theft has occurred. Lot of money is being spent on safety and security measures of the temple. In spite of this, if 2.5 kilograms of silver trident is being stolen, then it is not just a matter of trident being stolen, it is stealing of a body part of the deity," said Avi Mukte Swaranand, a priest of the temple.

"Seven to eight days have passed, but the administration has not been able to find the thief or the trident. They have been unable to tell the people what steps are being taken in this matter, and therefore, it is natural for people to be angry," Swaranand added.

The residents have demanded that the police look into the matter with some urgency. (ANI)