One of the most sacred pilgrimage sites of Buddhism is located in Mahabodhi Temple, Bihar, Bihar. Akash Lama said, “We have been protesting since 12 February, demanding the removal of Brahmins and non-Buddhists from the control of the Mahabodhi temple.”
It is worth noting that Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) Mahabodhi is responsible for the management of the temple. Currently, the committee includes Four Hindus, Four Buddhists, and District Magistrates as PresidentThis system is in force since 1949 Bodh Gaya Temple Act (BT Act)Which the protesters have to eliminate so that only Buddhists manage the committee only.
As Bodh Gaya Temple WebsiteThe current committee has total Seven memberswith Three Buddhists and four Hindus,
Shravan Anand, who has traveled from Aurangabad in Bihar, has been part of the protest for the last 15 days. He explained why there is a demand for an All-Buddhist committee. Talk to The QuintHe said:
Akash Lama has alleged that the Mahabodhi temple is being Brahmin.
He said, “Mahabodhi Mahavihara is being Brahmins. The impact of Brahminic rituals in the management and ceremonies of the temple is increasing, hurting the belief and legacy of the Buddhist community deeply.”
Former Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) member and Buddhist monk Pragya Sheel said, “Hindus form a majority in BTMC, and all temple staff members are Hindus, who constantly lead to disputes over religious practices. There were many conflicts even during my tenure.”
He added, “In fact, people who claim to be a Brahmin in the temple are mainly inspired by the desire and money generated by charity to seize the posts.”
