Sikkim Minister for Ecclesiastical Affairs, Sonam Lama, has called on the Union Government to intervene in the ongoing dispute surrounding the Bodhgaya Temple Act (BTA) of 1949. Lama urged the Centre to address the concerns of the global Buddhist community, which has been demanding amendments to the Act governing the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, Bihar.
In a letter dated April 1 and addressed to Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Lama expressed “deep concern” over the lack of representation for Buddhists in the temple’s administration. “The Buddhist community worldwide has long awaited justice regarding the governance and rightful representation at Bodhgaya,” he wrote.
The movement for reform, launched on February 9 this year, has gained traction with growing participation from Buddhist monks and followers at the Bodhgaya site. Protesters argue that the existing legal framework does not reflect the spiritual and cultural contributions of Buddhists, despite the temple’s significance as the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
Lama emphasized that legislative changes are essential for ensuring fair recognition and addressing historical grievances. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains a focal point of Buddhist pilgrimage and international attention.