Chennai, 9 July (H.S.): Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P.K. Sekar Babu has hit out at former Chief Minister and AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) over his remarks on the usage of temple funds. Sekar Babu criticized EPS for his ignorance on the matter, stating that the funds collected from temples are utilized for various developmental activities, including education and healthcare.

Sekar Babu was responding to EPS's comments questioning the usage of temple funds for purposes other than temple maintenance. EPS had alleged that the funds were being misused and diverted for non-temple purposes. However, Sekar Babu countered these claims, explaining that the temple funds are used for the betterment of society, including the construction of colleges and other public facilities.

The minister questioned EPS's stance, asking what's wrong with using temple funds to build colleges and educational institutions. Sekar Babu emphasized that the funds are being utilized for the welfare of the people and to promote education and healthcare in the state. He accused EPS of trying to create confusion and mislead the public with his allegations.

Sekar Babu's remarks have sparked a fresh debate on the usage of temple funds in Tamil Nadu. While the AIADMK has been critical of the DMK government's handling of temple affairs, the DMK has defended its stance, saying that the funds are being used for the greater good. The issue is likely to continue to be a contentious one in the state's politics.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary