Statement by H.H. Gachhadhipati Yugbhushasuri M. S. (Pandit Maharaj)
Ref.: Office Memorandum dated 5th January 2023 issued by Central Government (MOEF) on Shikharji Issue (F.No. 11-584/2014-WL)
Since 2018 Jains are continuously demanding that the entire hill of Shikharji be declared and notified as a “PLACE OF WORSHIP OF JAINS”. However, no Gazetted Notification has been issued yet, only an office memorandum was given four years ago. It is necessary to complete the task by obtaining this notification at the earliest.
After the meeting which was held yesterday, a press release was issued by the Central Government along with an office memorandum.
Subsequently, speech was given by the trustee of Anandji Kalyanji Trust, Shripal bhai in the press conference. It was stated by him that, “Our misunderstandings have dissolved.” This statement is applicable to those who are under any misunderstandings or confusions. We had no confusion with respect to the notification.
For the one who is taking lead in the movement should make clear what misunderstanding they had. They are obliged and are responsible to inform this to all jains and also for what goal they had organized this movement.
Secondly, the Trustee of Anandji Kalyanji Trust stated that the Jains are satisfied and there is no need for the movement now. He also stated that we have obtained a notification staying clause 3 of the notification.
However, this is not true. No notification has been issued, only an office memorandum is given.
At this juncture, till the time entire hills of Shikharji is notified through a Gazette notification as “PLACES OF WORSHIP OF JAINS“, it will be extremely important for Jains to not halt the movement.
Date : 6th January 2023
Place : Vesu, Surat
