RAJSHAHI, JUNE 01, (V7N)  – An alleged attempt to forcibly seize the property of the Malshira Universal Kali Temple in Malshira village, Kamargaon Union (UP), Tanore, Rajshahi, has sparked extreme anger and dissatisfaction among local followers of the traditional religion. Santosh Kumar, son of the late Jogendranath, and Dwijen, son of the late Mahendranath, both from Malshira village, are accused of perpetrating various misdeeds to unlawfully claim the temple's land, even preventing the organization of Kali Puja.

Locals allege that Santosh and Dwijen are throwing cattle waste onto the temple premises. When confronted, they reportedly resort to threats of physical harm.

According to land records, properties in Malshira Mouza of Kamargaon UP are designated for public and religious use: RS Khatian No. 276, RS Dag No. 1514 (12th century, public use); RS Dag No. 1517 (14th century, religious purposes); and RS Khatian No. 278, RS Dag No. 1208 (22th century, public use).

Villagers state that these properties collectively constitute the Malshira Universal Kali Temple, where Sanatan Dharma followers of Malshira have worshipped Kali for generations. Santosh and Dwijen were reportedly entrusted with the care of the temple for nearly two decades. However, they are now allegedly claiming these temple properties as their own and obstructing worship. Despite a pending court case concerning these properties, Santosh and Dwijen have reportedly intensified their efforts to forcibly occupy the land. Several villagers claim that Santosh and Dwijen have colluded with an "organized land grabbing group" and are determined to seize the temple site, prompting appeals for urgent intervention from higher authorities.

Asit Sarkar, President of the Malshira Sarbajanin Kalimandir Committee, and Secretary Ujjal Pramanik, confirmed that Santosh and Dwijen were long responsible for the temple's care. They accuse them of exploiting this opportunity to create "fake documents" in a desperate bid to forcibly occupy the temple. They further allege that since May 27, Santosh and Dwijen have been obstructing worship in the temple.

When approached for comment, Santosh and Dwijen denied these allegations, asserting that their opponents are spreading falsehoods against them.

END/RAR/RH/