Historical & Religious Significance
- Mahabodhi Temple: Located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized since 2002; attracts global Buddhist pilgrims.
- Religious Layers: Hindus view Buddha as an incarnation of Vishnu; temple also houses Hindu elements like Shaivite mutt.
Relevance : GS 1(Society , Heritage , Culture)
Legal & Administrative Background
- Bodh Gaya Temple Act, 1949: Enacted to resolve Hindu-Buddhist disputes over temple control.
- BTMC Composition: Includes 4 Buddhists, 4 Hindus, with the Gaya District Magistrate as ex-officio chairperson (post religion-neutral since 2013).
- Historical Precedents:
- 1990s: Attempt by Lalu Yadav govt. to replace BT Act with a Buddhist-majority control bill — failed to pass.
Current Protests
- Started: February 12, 2025.
- Organisers: All India Buddhist Forum (AIBF), backed by Bhim Army and other Dalit-Buddhist groups.
- Demands:
- Repeal of the BT Act.
- Full control of temple by Buddhists alone.
- Removal of non-Buddhist members from temple management.
Financial Concerns
- Accusations: Disputes allegedly driven by control over temple donations and funds.
- FCRA Violation: In 2023, BTMC fined ₹80 lakh for FCRA violations.
- Transparency Issue: Annual report link on BTMC website is non-functional.
- Donations in Protest: Protestors circulating multiple bank accounts for contributions—raising concerns.
Political & Legal Landscape
- Supreme Court Case: 2012 petition to repeal the BT Act still pending.
- Recent Political Debate: Parliament discussed the issue during Waqf Amendment Bill (2025) debates.
Identity, History & Symbolism
- Historical Conflict: As far back as 1895, Sri Lankan monk Anagarika Dharmapala challenged Hindu control.
- Dr. Ambedkar’s Legacy: Protestors draw ideological inspiration from Ambedkar’s conversion to Buddhism.
- Cultural Erosion Claim: AIBF alleges Buddhist identity, culture, and rights are being diluted under the BT Act.
Way Forward
- Legal Resolution Awaited: District Magistrate and BTMC officials advise awaiting SC verdict.
- Government Inaction: No significant policy shift despite decades of Buddhist demands.
- Need for Dialogue: Deep-rooted religious, legal, and political tensions require multi-stakeholder engagement and mutual respect.
