Kukke, Home To Karnataka’s Richest Temple, Bans Tobacco Products

Subrahmanya gram panchayat in Karnataka home to the Shri Kukke Subramanya temple has adopted a resolution to ban tobacco products in its its administrative limits.

The temple town has banned the sale of cigarettes, beedis and other chewable tobacco products, Times of India reported.

The decision has been taken to ensure the sanctity and sanitation of the vicinity of the temple which is also the richest one in the state, with its annual revenue crossing Rs 100 crore.

The temple also sees devotees from across the country thronging it, especially on the occasion of the ongoing festival of Champa Shashti in the month of Marghashira.

"A decision to ban sale of tobacco products was taken considering the sanctity of the temple, where large number of devotees come to offer prayers, especially Sarpa Samskara and Ashlesha Bali," said Subrahmanya Gram Panchayat president Lalitha G Gundadka, as quoted by ToI.

“Since smoking in public places is banned as per the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, we will also seek police help to implement the provisions and impose penalties on those who violate the rules“ explained Gundadka, adding that the ban will continue even post the Shashti festivities. 

The resolution will be widely publicised, said officials, adding that this was to ensure devotees are not inconvenienced due to the use of tobacco.

The temple was recently in news for a demand and a banner by Hindu groups seeking a ban on Muslim traders setting shop at the temple