Kedarnath Rawal threatens fast over appointment of Guptkashi Vishwanath Temple priest

my uttarakhand news Bureau
Rudraprayag, 29 May: The controversy over the appointment of a priest at the Guptkashi Vishwanath temple has resurfaced once again and, in this regard, Kedarnath Rawal Bhima Shankar Linga has strongly opposed the order issued by the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC). Calling the move a violation of centuries-old traditions, the Rawal has warned of an indefinite fast if the appointment is not withdrawn and has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking intervention to protect the sanctity of the religious system.
The dispute began after Shant Linga, who had been performing rituals at the temple for years, was transferred to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. In his place, Ishwar Linga was appointed through an order issued by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the committee. The decision has triggered a storm over the rights and traditions governing priestly appointments.
Bhima Shankar Linga has asserted that according to Kedarnath tradition, the appointment of the Panch Pujaris has always been made solely on the recommendation of the Rawal. He alleged that, this time, the order was issued without his consent, which he described as a direct breach of religious norms and the traditional practice. He pointed out that Shant Linga’s appointment too had been made on his recommendation and that all rituals at the temple are being conducted strictly in accordance with established traditions. He warned that, if the committee does not withdraw the order, he will be compelled to begin an indefinite fast.
In his letter to the Prime Minister, the Rawal has sought his intervention to safeguard religious traditions and ensure that the sanctity of the system is not undermined. He stressed that the sudden appointment order amounts to interference in the age-old practices of the temple.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the committee, Sohan Singh Ragad has claimed that the appointment order was issued as part of an administrative process. He assured that discussions would be held with the Kedarnath Rawal to arrive at a solution in line with tradition.