Non Hindus banned from entering Somnath temple

Ahmedabad: The famous pilgrim place of Lord Shiva, the Somnath temple in Gujarat will now be off-limits for non-Hindus as authorities have decided against entry to people following other faiths without prior permission.

Authorities cited security concerns and protection of 'sanctity' of a religious place for the restriction, saying other religions do not allow non-followers to enter their sacred places.

"Shree Somnath Jyotirling is a pilgrimage for Hindus. Non-Hindus will have to obtain permission from General Manager's Office (of the temple) to enter the sacred pilgrim-place," said a notice put up by temple authorities at the main entrance gate. The notice was put up outside the main entrance-gate of the temple last Monday. Daily thousands of devotees from across the country visit the temple, which is very heavily protected by police.

The famous Shiva temple, located near Veraval town of Gir-Somnath district, is governed by a trustee board headed by former Gujarat Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior BJP leader LK Advani are other trustees.

"The decision was taken by the Somnath Trust's secretary (PK Lahiri) two to three days ago and we put a notice accordingly," Vijaysinh Chavda, Deputy Manager of Somnath trust, told PTI.

When asked about reasons behind barring the entry of non-Hindus in the temple without taking permission, Chavda said the decision has been taken due to security reasons.

Trustee Secretary of Somanth Temple and former IAS officer PK Lahiri told PTI, "Notice was put up after some people represented that entry needs to be regulated. I have put up that notice."