Protest in support of fasting Buddhists in Bodh Gaya

People from Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Ladakh and other Himalayan regions gathered at Rewalsar in Mandi district yesterday to show their solidarity with their fellow Buddhists who are currently fasting at Bodh Gaya. The protest, marked by a peaceful demonstration, was held to express their collective demand for the repeal of the Buddhist Temple Management Committee (BTMC) Act of 1949, which they view as unjust and oppressive.

The protesters, who included members of various Buddhist communities from the Himalayas, emphasised the importance of allowing Buddhists to have control over the management of their religious and cultural sites, particularly Bodh Gaya, which holds profound spiritual significance as the land of Lord Buddha's enlightenment.

The BTMC Act of 1949, they argued, has hindered their autonomy and proper governance of their religious affairs as it places the management of key Buddhist sites under government control.

Phunchog Rai, former minister, who spoke at the protest, highlighted the historical and cultural importance of Bodh Gaya to the Buddhist community worldwide. He stated, "Bodh Gaya must be rightfully and solely managed by Buddhists themselves as it is a sacred land where Buddha attained enlightenment. The long-pending demand of the Buddhist minority must be addressed and the BTMC Act of 1949 must be repealed to ensure that the religious and cultural heritage of Buddhists is preserved and respected."

The protest in Rewalsar was marked by peaceful demonstrations with participants calling for justice and equal rights for the Buddhist community. While the fasting in Bodh Gaya continues, the protesters in Rewalsar remain committed to supporting the cause, urging the authorities to address their concerns and recognise the rightful management of Buddhist heritage sites.