Preserve Vrindavan’s Spirit: Allahabad HC Examines Plea Against Temple Corridor Plan

The Allahabad High Court issued notice to the Uttar Pradesh government in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the proposed Banke Bihari Corridor project in Vrindavan. The petition alleges that the plan threatens to destroy the region’s historical lanes and surrounding temples, which are considered integral to Vrindavan’s religious and cultural identity.

The single-judge bench of Justice Siddharth Verma has directed the state government to file its reply by July 3.

The PIL was filed on Tuesday by a resident of Mathura, Pankaj, who contended that the narrow streets leading to the Banke Bihari temple are not mere passageways but sacred heritage sites closely linked to the Vaishnav Bhakti tradition. According to the petitioner, razing these paths would irreversibly damage Vrindavan’s spiritual legacy.

The plea further warned that the construction could impact more than 50 ancient religious sites, including monasteries and kunj bhavans, many of which have distinct traditions and loyal followings that continue to this day. Temples such as Vishwanath Kunj, Purdilpur Wala Temple, Multan Bihari Temple, and Chaila Bihari Temple are among those reportedly at risk.

Local opposition to the corridor has been growing since the formation of the Shree Banke Bihari Temple Corridor Trust. Protesters have urged the government to explore alternative models for development that preserve Vrindavan’s original character and have suggested building a new temple only after wide consensus.

In its defence, the state government has argued that the project is intended to accommodate rising footfall and future pilgrim needs. Divisional Commissioner Shailendra Kumar stated that all planning decisions were made at the government level, keeping in mind the prevailing conditions in Vrindavan.