Karnataka CM Shivakumar Calls for Proper Use of 42 Kg Gold at Saundatti Yellamma Temple

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Monday said the state government was considering a special scheme to safeguard gold and jewellery held by temples, ensure proper accounting and facilitate their appropriate use for adorning deities and conducting rituals.

Speaking after laying foundation stones for various development works at the Renuka Yellamma temple in Saundatti, Belagavi district, Shivakumar said he had instructed Muzrai Minister K S Basavanthappa to ensure that approximately 42 kg of gold at the shrine was used to adorn the deity.

“Proper accounts must be maintained for the gold held by all temples in the state. There should be no scope for concerns about gold being kept in boxes and someone taking it away,” he said, adding that the government intended to introduce a special scheme during its tenure.

The chief minister said a ₹215-crore comprehensive development plan had been undertaken for the Yellamma hill shrine. The government also intends to improve facilities for devotees, including free meals and accommodation.

According to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office, Shivakumar offered prayers at the temple and participated in the ceremonial lighting of the sacred lamp. He said devotees travelled long distances to visit the shrine, reflecting the goddess's significance in their lives.

Describing faith as a personal matter, he emphasised the need to respect all religions and maintain communal harmony. He also highlighted the importance accorded to women in Indian culture. Comparing government administration to a temple, Shivakumar said people approached both with their problems and expectations.

“Just as people visit temples to share their problems and seek solutions, they approach government offices with their grievances. It is the government's duty to respond to people's problems and resolve them,” he said. He added that the government had established the Praja Seva Department to take administration to people's doorsteps.

Shivakumar also appreciated senior Congress leader and former minister H K Patil for establishing a special authority to oversee the Yellamma temple's development, saying it had laid a strong foundation for the shrine's future growth.