Ujjain (MP), Oct 19 – The administration of the Mahakaleshwar temple has taken decisive action following a controversy surrounding the entry of Shrikant Shinde, son of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, into the temple’s sanctum sanctorum.

On Thursday evening, Shrikant Shinde, who serves as the MP for Kalyan Lok Sabha, was permitted access to the sanctum despite existing regulations prohibiting such entry. This incident has drawn criticism from the opposition Congress party, which has condemned the BJP-led government in Madhya Pradesh for the apparent breach of protocol.

In response to the situation, temple administrator Ganesh Dhakad announced on Saturday that Vinod Chouksey, who was responsible for overseeing the ‘darshan’ (viewing of the deity) arrangements, has been dismissed from his position due to alleged negligence. Additionally, three security personnel have received show-cause notices, and strict measures have been implemented to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The Mahakaleshwar temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the twelve revered ‘jyotirlinga’ temples in India and draws a significant number of devotees each year. Congress MLA Mahesh Parmar highlighted the disparity in treatment, noting that while ordinary devotees often endure long waits in queues for a glimpse of Lord Mahakaleshwar, VIPs are granted access to the ‘garbha griha’ despite the established ban.