Buddhists seek dignity, protection of fundamental rights

Hassan: The local branch of the Buddhist Society of India (BSI) has petitioned the President Droupadi Murmu to intervene to safeguard the rights and dignity of Buddhists. The branch is affiliated to the state branch committee of the All India Buddhist Forum.

In a communication routed through the Deputy Commissioner, Hassan district, it has been stated that the rights and dignity of millions of Buddhists was being violated as the Mahabodhi Mahavira in Bodhgaya, Bihar, the holiest site for Buddhists worldwide and an UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to be governed under the antiquated Bodhgaya Temple Act of 1949.

“This situation not only undermines the fundamental rights guaranteed to Buddhists under the Constitution of India but also disrespects the sanctity of the Buddha’s teachings and the cultural significance of this site”.

It is demanded that the Bihar government immediately dissolve the Bodhgaya Temple Act of 1949 and replace it with a legislation fully compliant with the Constitution of India guaranteeing the Buddhist community full control over the Mahabodhi Mahavira, their spiritual home.

The other demands include the formation of an independent Buddhist Management Trust consisting solely of members of the Buddhist community, particularly senior monks, legal experts and heritage managers from both India and the International Buddhist community. 

The issue should be urgently reviewed by the National Commission for Minorities as the matter pertains to violation of the rights of Buddhists, a recognized minority under Indian law.

Copies of the communication have been sent to the Prime Minister of India, Bihar Chief Minister and the Chairman, National Minority Commission.