Rajasthan High Court Modifies Directions on Nathdwara Development Projects
State Government Primarily Responsible for Establishing Trauma Centre and Cultural Institution; Temple Board to Assist Financially
In a significant development, the Rajasthan High Court has modified its earlier directions concerning the establishment of a Trauma Centre and a National Level Institution for promoting art and culture at Nathdwara, clarifying the roles of the State Government and the Nathdwara Temple Board. The judgment, delivered by a division bench comprising Justice Vinit Kumar Mathur and Justice Anuroop Singhi, highlights the primary responsibility of the State Government and its functionaries in developing these facilities, with the Temple Board playing a supportive role.
The decision came in response to a review petition filed by the Nathdwara Temple Board, which sought clarification and modification of the directions issued in an earlier court order dated October 3, 2017. The Temple Board expressed its willingness to assist in the projects but contended that it should not be solely burdened with the responsibility of establishing and operating these centers.
The court acknowledged the submissions made by the Temple Board's counsel, Mr. Vineet Dave and Mr. Kaushik Dave, emphasizing that while the Temple Board plays a significant role, the establishment of these facilities falls primarily under the purview of the State Government and its agencies. The Temple Board's role, as clarified by the court, is to provide assistance, including financial aid, to support the government's efforts.
Counsel for the respondents, Mr. Sandeep Soni and Mr. Sukhdev Sharma, representing Mr. B. L. Bhati, Additional Advocate General, did not contest the submissions made by the Temple Board's counsel. They agreed that the Temple Board should maintain the dispensary within the temple premises but supported the modification of the court's directions as requested by the Temple Board.
The judgment underscores the collaborative effort required between the government and the Temple Board, ensuring that the development projects benefit the public and enhance the cultural landscape of Nathdwara. The court's decision allows the Temple Board to contribute to the best of its ability while ensuring that the main responsibility lies with the governmental authorities.
Additionally, the court has permitted the Temple Board to present further arguments and grievances during the final hearing of the writ petition, allowing for a comprehensive review of all aspects of the case.
This ruling is expected to pave the way for smoother execution of the projects, balancing the roles and responsibilities of the involved parties and ensuring that the initiatives serve the intended purpose of enhancing public amenities and promoting cultural heritage in Nathdwara.
Bottom Line:
Nathdwara Temple Board cannot be solely saddled with the responsibility of setting up a Trauma Centre and National Level Institution. Instead, the State Government/State functionaries are primarily responsible, with the Temple Board providing assistance, including financial aid.
Statutory provision(s): Civil Procedure
