Shirdi: The devotees who are planning to visit the Shirdi Sai Temple will have to carry their identity cards with them, as per a new rule imposed by the High Court for security reasons. The Temple Security Department has enforced this rule and instructed the security personnel to ensure its compliance.
What is the reason behind the rule?
The High Court passed the order after hearing a petition filed by a resident, who alleged that some anti-social elements were entering the temple premises and creating a nuisance. The petitioner also claimed that some of the villagers were involved in illegal activities and were misusing the temple facilities. The petitioner demanded that the temple authorities should verify the identity of every person who enters the temple area and restrict the entry of outsiders.
The High Court agreed with the petitioner and directed the Temple Security Department to implement the rule of mandatory ID cards for visiting the Shirdi Sai Temple. The court also asked the temple authorities to submit a report on the security arrangements and the implementation of the rule within a month.
How will the rule affect the villagers and the devotees?
According to the rule, the villagers and the devotees will have to show their ID cards at the village gate as well as at the entrance of the temple area. The ID cards can be any government-issued document, such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID card, driver’s license, passport, etc. The security personnel will check the ID cards and allow only those who have valid reasons to enter the temple area. The villagers and the devotees who come for administrative work, such as paying bills, applying for permits, etc., will also have to show their ID cards.
The rule will also apply to the Gurusthan temple, which is located near the Sai Samadhi temple and is considered the place where Sai Baba first appeared in Shirdi. The Gurusthan temple is also visited by many devotees who seek the blessings of Sai Baba.
The rule is expected to enhance the security and sanctity of the Shirdi Sai Temple, which is one of the most revered shrines in India. The temple attracts millions of devotees every year, who come to pay their respects to Sai Baba, the saint who preached universal love and harmony. The temple also provides various services and facilities to the devotees, such as free meals, accommodation, medical care, etc.
