BJP''s symbolic fast demanding opening of temples

Aurangabad, Oct 13: As part of the statewide agitation, the BJP-led Spiritual Coordination Alliance here on Tuesday held agitation seeking reopening of temples. Headed by convenor Sanjay Joshi, the agitators gathered in front of the Gajanan Maharaj temple in the Garkheda locality and resorted to symbolic fasting.

A symbolic fast was performed in front of the Gajanan Maharaj Temple between 11 am and 2 pm. Joshi said, "Religious places hold extreme importance. The livelihood of coconut, flower-garland and agarbatti traders also depends on it. However, their livelihood has been snatched away.

By carrying out this agitation in a democratic way, the first warning has been given to the Mahavikas Aghadi government. If the temples are not reopened, the agitation will intensify." Prominent leaders like MP Bhagwat Karad, MLA Atul Save, Pravin Ghuge, Sanjay Kenekar, Bhausaheb Deshmukh, Sanjay Joshi, Bapu Ghadamode, Anil Makariye, Pramod Rathod, Dayaram Basayye, Madhuri Advant, Amrita Palodkar, and others were present. Mira Kavle, on behalf of the Vyaghya Murali Parishad, demanded that the government allow the opening of temples and commencement of Jagran Gondhal programs. Strict police security was maintained at the gate of Gajanan Maharaj temple on this occasion. The venue was manned by heavy security.