A major controversy has erupted in Maharashtra after the Shani Shingnapur Temple Trust terminated 114 Muslim employees, allegedly under pressure from right-wing groups. The mass layoff has drawn strong criticism from opposition leaders, who have accused the Trust of religious discrimination.
Out of the 167 employees sacked on “disciplinary grounds,” 114 were Muslims—accounting for nearly 68% of the total terminations. The Trust claims the action was taken due to “non-performance and absenteeism,” but did not provide individual reasons.
Temple Trust CEO Gorakshanath Darandale denied the allegations of religious bias.
“There is no question of discrimination. Over 2,400 employees work here, and many of those dismissed had not reported to duty despite repeated notices,” Darandale said.
However, the timing of the decision has raised eyebrows. The sackings follow open demands from Tushar Bhosale, BJP’s Spiritual Coordination Front leader, who called for the removal of non-Hindu staff from temples.
“This is a historic win for Sanatan Dharma. Let this be an example for other temple trusts. Our sacred space has been reclaimed,” Bhosale declared.
NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) MLA Sangram Jagtap had also threatened to launch protests over the hiring of Muslim staff.
Reacting strongly, Samajwadi Party MLA Rais Shaikh called the move a “violation of civil rights.”
“This is an illegal and arbitrary dismissal based on religion,” Shaikh said.
“Targeting Muslims and Dalits is part of BJP’s strategy to polarize voters. This dismissal clearly shows the BJP-RSS mindset in action.”
The Shani Shingnapur Temple, known for its unique idol of Lord Shani placed in the open without a roof, is one of Maharashtra’s most revered shrines. It draws thousands of devotees every Saturday.
