The dispute over the relocation of the Khapareshwar temple has been resolved, with the government deciding to install ‘Dev Khapareshwar’ at two separate locations to satisfy both factions of devotees.
Porvorim, MLA and Minister Rohan Khaunte confirmed this decision following a meeting held at the Chief Minister’s official residence to address the disagreement between two local groups.
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Khaunte announced that a dome will be constructed over an area of Simultaneously, a new Khapareshwar temple will be built near the Alcon showroom in Socorro, where an idol of ‘Dev Khapareshwar’ will be ceremoniously installed. The government has assured full support for both projects.
The dispute began after the removal of the historic banyan tree, which stood in the path of the Porvorim flyover. This led to the demolition of the Khapareshwar temple at the site, triggering political and religious tensions. Political parties had accused the Sawant government of compromising on Hindutva, forcing the Chief Minister to promise the reconstruction of the temple.
However, the reconstruction plan sparked disagreements between two local groups. One group demanded the installation of at least a dome at the original temple site, while the other insisted on the construction of a complete temple and the installation of the idol. Minister Khaunte stated that the Chief Minister’s meeting resolved the issue by agreeing to both demands .
When asked about the presence of ‘ two Khapareshwar temples’ in the same village, Khaunte clarified that both installations would remain within the traditional boundaries of the temple, ensuring that ‘Khapareshwar ‘ remains spiritually intact.
Khaunte also criticized the political interference surrounding the temple dispute, stating that some individuals were attempting to create religious divisions. “God does not belong to any caste or religion. Politicizing the issue of Khapareshwar temple is wrong,” Khaunte remarked.
He further assured that if both groups reach a consensus on a single location, the government is open to constructing the temple there as well.
