Bihar Bhumi Controversy: Crores Worth of Ramjanaki Math Land Registered in Non-Hindus’ Names, Government Orders Probe
A Shocking Revelation from Sakra, Muzaffarpur
In a deeply disturbing turn of events, crores worth of sacred land belonging to Ramjanaki Math in Jagdishpur Baghnagri, Sakra, Muzaffarpur, has reportedly been registered under the names of non-Hindu individuals, including one Zaheer Khan. This controversial discovery has ignited widespread outrage among local villagers and religious communities alike.
Following the revelation, the Bihar State Religious Trust Board termed the registrations illegal. In response, the Chief Minister’s Secretariat has swiftly intervened, ordering a detailed investigation by the District Magistrate (DM) and demanding an urgent report.
How the Land Controversy Unfolded
The issue came to light when around seventy concerned villagers submitted a complaint to the Bihar State Religious Trust Board. According to the complaint, parts of the revered Ramjanaki Math’s land were allegedly transferred to individuals from three different religious communities.
The villagers expressed deep anger, highlighting that this illegal act not only hurt religious sentiments but also caused practical difficulties for devotees visiting the Math for worship and religious ceremonies.
In their plea, they stressed that the Math is a place of immense religious significance and must be protected from unauthorized occupation or encroachment.
Action Taken by the Religious Trust Board
Taking serious cognizance of the villagers’ complaint, the then-chairman of the Bihar State Religious Trust Board, Akhilesh Kumar Jain, had issued clear instructions. He categorically stated that the transfer of Math land to Zaheer Khan and two others was against the fundamental principles governing temple lands.
He had directed for immediate action, including vacating the occupied land and restoring it to the Math’s possession. However, despite these clear orders, no substantial action was taken at the ground level.
This administrative inaction led the matter to escalate to the highest levels of the state government, finally prompting intervention from the Chief Minister’s Office.
Rising Anger Among Villagers
The villagers of Sakra have been protesting fiercely against the illegal allotment. They view the incident not just as a land dispute, but as a serious violation of their cultural and religious heritage. Public gatherings, peaceful marches, and vocal demands for justice have become a common sight in the region over the past few days.
The villagers are demanding swift action — the cancellation of the illegal land records, eviction of those who have taken possession unlawfully, and strict punishment for those responsible for this grave oversight.
Government’s Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Chief Minister’s Secretariat, acknowledging the seriousness of the issue, has directed the Muzaffarpur District Magistrate to conduct a thorough investigation.
The DM has been tasked with verifying land records, identifying how the unauthorized registrations occurred, and recommending steps for immediate correction. A detailed report is awaited, and the villagers, along with concerned citizens across Bihar, are hoping for quick and just action.
A Larger Reflection: Protecting Religious Trust Properties
This incident once again brings into focus the urgent need to protect religious and trust properties across India. Sacred lands are not mere plots of real estate; they are custodians of faith, history, and community identity.
Incidents like these not only hurt religious sentiments but also risk eroding the centuries-old trust that communities have placed in religious institutions.
The Bihar government’s swift response in seeking an investigation offers hope. However, it is crucial that the findings translate into strict action, and robust mechanisms are put in place to prevent such illegal encroachments in the future.
