Rajasthan Jain Sangh Sirohi Sankshipta Report

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The document is the "Rajasthan Jain Sangh Sirohi Sankshipta Report" (Brief Report of Rajasthan Jain Sangh, Sirohi), authored by Pukhraj Singhi. It details the proceedings and outcomes of a conference organized by the Rajasthan Jain Sangh.

Key Aspects and Content:

• Foreword (Page 1):

  • The report begins by referencing a previous conference held on June 2-3, 1976, at Delwara Jain Svetambar Temple, Abu, to implement its resolutions.
  • A decade later, many workers felt the need for another gathering to discuss future plans for Rajasthan, make decisions regarding the Jain community (Shri Sangha), Jain Dharma, and their trust properties.
  • This led to the organization of the current conference from May 31 to June 1, 1987, at the same location.
  • The booklet compiles the conference proceedings, a brief report of the Rajasthan Jain Sangh's activities, the passed resolutions, and lists of members for the executive, special invitee, and advisory committees.

• Message from the Governor of Rajasthan (Page 2):

  • Vasantrao Patil, Governor of Rajasthan, expresses happiness about the conference.
  • He highlights the Jain community in Rajasthan as educated, socially, religiously, and politically aware.
  • He praises their continuous service during natural calamities like famines and floods, serving both humans and other beings.
  • He attributes this to the practical application of Jain principles like non-violence (ahimsa), renunciation (tyaga), and non-possession (aparigraha) in personal life.
  • He wishes the conference success.

• Message from Acharya Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj (Pages 3-5):

  • A highly respected Acharya blesses the initiative.
  • He emphasizes the need for proper administration of religious trusts and animal welfare in Rajasthan, adhering to scriptural guidelines.
  • He stresses the importance of proper management and utilization of donations and funds collected, preventing misuse and corruption.
  • He states that Jain places of worship, architecture, and art are means to right faith (samyak darshan) and devotion, and they should not be turned into places for exhibition or entertainment.
  • He calls for the strict adherence to scriptural rules regarding the sanctity and visiting procedures of these holy places.
  • He urges the entire Jain community to unite and strongly counter any attacks or encroachments on their properties and cultural heritage.
  • He emphasizes the responsibility to protect the invaluable legacy of ancestors.
  • He specifically mentions the need to challenge any ban on child initiation (Bal Diksha) in the Supreme Court, as it strikes at the fundamental beliefs of Jainism.

• Detailed Report and Activities of Rajasthan Jain Sangh (Pages 6-26):

  • Community Presence and Service (Page 6): Notes the significant Jain population in Rajasthan, their numerous historical pilgrimage sites, temples, institutions, and charitable trusts actively involved in social service, especially during crises. It reiterates the core Jain principle of serving all living beings.
  • Challenges and Constitutional Provisions (Page 7): Mentions Articles 25-26 and 30 of the Indian Constitution safeguarding religious freedoms. However, it expresses concern that state laws often fail to protect Jain culture, art, and properties, leading to increasing interference. It argues that state governments should not interfere against scriptural practices and warns against deviations from established Jain management principles, which can lead to corruption. It highlights the positive impact of Jain community efforts in renovating temples and preserving art and culture, citing the commendation from the Hindu Religious Endowment Commission.
  • Proposed Solutions for Management and Dispute Resolution (Pages 8-11):
    • Advocates for a law that ensures management and operation of institutions and trusts by community representatives without government interference.
    • Identifies internal disputes and misuse of resources as major hindrances to community progress.
    • Proposes a three-tier system for resolving local issues: local committees, appellate committees at the district level, and a tribunal at the state level. These bodies should ideally comprise retired judges or influential members from outside the district/state.
    • Suggests forming a powerful state-level organization with specialized committees:
      • Law Committee: For legal advice and management of institutions.
      • Renovation Committee: For temple/sthanak renovation reports and fundraising.
      • Epigraph Committee: To collect and study inscriptions.
      • Art and Culture Protection Committee: To address criticisms and protect culture.
      • Management Committee: For the security and management of dilapidated temples and upkeep of neglected ones.
      • Public Trust Registration Committee: To assist in registering trusts, societies, etc.
      • Organization Committee: For structuring the organization and conducting meetings.
      • Special Committee: To address emergent issues.
      • Vihar and Vyavachha Committee: To facilitate the movement and accommodation of ascetics (munis).
      • Employment Committee: To provide employment opportunities to the underprivileged.
      • Education-Initiation Committee: To encourage education and initiation and provide modern and religious education.
    • Calls for political awareness to protect community interests.
    • Emphasizes the Jain principles of renunciation and non-violence as guides for self-upliftment through service.
  • Past Activities and Achievements (Pages 12-26):
    • Shri Kesariyaji Tirth: Details the ongoing legal battle to regain control of this tirth, which was nationalized. The Supreme Court ruled in 1973 that the temple is Jain and its management should be handed over to the Jain sect. The Sangh filed a writ petition in the Rajasthan High Court for the implementation of this verdict.
    • Other Tirths: Mentions efforts concerning the management of Pawapuri and Rajgirh tirths in Bihar, and the ongoing legal efforts to declare Shri Mahavirji Tirth in Sawai Madhopur as a Svetambar tirth.
    • Guidance and Support: Highlights the invaluable support and inspiration received from the late Upadhyaya Shri Dharmasagarji Maharaj.
    • National Impact: Discusses the Sangh's broader involvement in resolving complex issues related to various tirths across India, including those in Gujarat and Bihar.
    • Cultural Defense: Recounts efforts to counter historical inaccuracies and malicious claims against Lord Mahavir Swami and Jainism, particularly referencing a book by Prof. A.K. Chatterjee and content in Madhya Pradesh textbooks.
    • Addressing Anti-Jain Activities: Mentions addressing instances of violence and disturbances against Jain community members and religious sites in Rajasthan (e.g., Kolarghad and Takhatgarh incidents).
    • Educational Support: Notes support for Prakrit and Pali language studies.
    • Legal Challenges: Mentions opposition to the "Common Good Fund" bill in Maharashtra and efforts to stop the practice of giving a 3% share of temple offerings to temple caretakers (bhandaris) at Shri Kesariyaji Tirth.
    • Temple Administration Issues: Discusses efforts to get the idol of Shri Rishabhdev Bhagwan at Shri Kesariyaji Tirth re-coated (vilepan) despite legal hurdles.
    • Preservation of Temple Property: Highlights actions taken against vandalism at the Nadlai temple.
    • Inter-Sect Harmony: Efforts to resolve disputes between Sthanakvasi and Terapanthi communities in Sanwad.
    • Countering Misinformation: Recounts successfully correcting a false accusation against Lord Mahavir Swami by Dr. Ramsingh Yadav in a publication.
    • Anti-Violence Campaigns: Participation and support for programs promoting vegetarianism and opposing violence, including efforts to close slaughterhouses and prevent river pollution. Mentions filing a writ petition against cow slaughter in Maharashtra.
    • Promoting Jain Unity: Attempts to establish a single date for the observance of Samvatsari.
    • District-Level Initiatives: Establishment of the Sirohi District Jain Sangh to guide local institutions regarding registration under the Rajasthan Public Trust Act.
    • Tribute to Deceased Associates: Pays tribute to key contributors who have passed away, acknowledging their immense contributions and the irreparable loss to the Sangh.
    • Ongoing Collaboration: Mentions continued support and guidance from various Jain councils, committees, and individuals.
    • Financial Statement (Pages 27-31): Provides a detailed income and expenditure statement for the Rajasthan Jain Sangh from 1976-77 to 1986-87.

• Conference Proceedings (Pages 31-44):

  • Opening: The conference began on May 31, 1987, with a recital by Shri Hirabhai Devidas Thakkar, presided over by Shri Pukhraj Ji Singhi.
  • Inauguration: The planned inauguration by Governor Vasantrao Patil was cancelled due to the demise of a national leader. The conference was instead inaugurated by Shri Sultanmal Ji Jain, Chairman of Nakoda Tirth.
  • Messages and Speeches: Messages from the Governor and Acharya Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj were read. The Acharya's message emphasized unity, protection of Jain culture, and opposition to the Supreme Court writ challenging child initiation.
  • Discussion and Resolutions:
    • The President's speech reviewed the Sangh's achievements from 1956 to 1987 and highlighted actions taken against unfavorable laws and activities.
    • Discussions involved numerous delegates who offered constructive suggestions for strengthening the organization.
    • A 21-member committee was formed to propose amendments to the Sangh's constitution, to be submitted within a year. This committee would also function as the interim executive body to implement the Sangh's activities and conference resolutions.
    • Key Resolutions Passed:
      • Intervention in the Supreme Court writ petition regarding child initiation to defend Jain scriptures and culture.
      • Urging the state government to expedite action under Section 53 of the Rajasthan Public Trust Act concerning Shri Kesariyaji Jain Svetambar Temple, Dhuleva, and hand over its management to the Jain Svetambar committee.
      • Expressing gratitude to all contributors for preserving Jain art, culture, and strengthening trusts.
      • Commending the efforts of the Shri Chavleshwar Jain Svetambar Tirth Raksha Committee and requesting support for their legal endeavors.
      • Encouraging the collection and compilation of historical inscriptions and antiquities for national benefit.
      • Resolving to form a committee to protect and manage abandoned or neglected temples and temple properties.
      • Acknowledging the status of Shri Mahavirji Tirth as a Jain Svetambar Tirth and supporting the ongoing efforts of the defense committee.
      • Paying tribute to the deceased spiritual leaders (Upadhyaya Shri Dharmasagarji Maharaj, Panyas Prawar Shri Abhayasagarji Maharaj, and Acharya Shri Kailashsagarji Maharaj) and their guidance.
      • Offering condolences to the families of deceased social and religious workers.
  • Conduct of Sessions: The conference proceedings were managed by Shri Kalulal Ji Jain of Udaipur.
  • End of Conference: The conference concluded with a vote of thanks to the President and a declaration of the end with the Navkar mantra.

In essence, the report documents a significant gathering of the Rajasthan Jain community aimed at strengthening their organizational structure, safeguarding their religious and cultural heritage, and addressing legal and administrative challenges impacting their trusts and institutions. It highlights a history of proactive engagement by the Rajasthan Jain Sangh in defending Jain principles and properties across various fronts.