Pune: Controversy Erupts After BJP MP Nishikant Dubey Gets ‘VIP Darshan’ at Closed Bhimashankar Temple

Pune, 16th March 2026: A political row has broken out after Nishikant Dubey, a Member of Parliament from Jharkhand, was reportedly allowed ‘VIP darshan’ at the Bhimashankar Temple in Pune district despite the shrine being closed to the public due to ongoing renovation work.

The temple, one of the twelve sacred Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, has remained closed to devotees since January, as construction and repair work continue on the premises. Dubey’s visit to the temple on Saturday has since triggered sharp reactions on social media, with critics questioning the alleged preferential access granted to a political leader while ordinary devotees were denied entry.

The controversy intensified after reports indicated that the BJP MP from Godda was permitted to enter the temple for a special darshan, even as general entry remained prohibited.

Responding to the issue, Jitendra Dudi said the district administration had not granted any permission for the visit.

“We had no prior information about MP Dubey and his associates visiting the temple for darshan. The district administration has not issued any permission. If the temple trust has granted permission, we will seek details and take action accordingly,” he said.

Authorities had ordered the closure of the Bhimashankar temple for devotees from January 9 for about three months to allow construction and repair work at the sabha mandap and along the staircase approach to the shrine. The decision was made citing safety concerns, particularly given the large crowds expected in the region ahead of the Kumbh Mela in Nashik.

Notably, the temple remained closed even during the recent Maha Shivaratri festival, and the annual pilgrimage, traditionally held on that occasion, was cancelled due to ongoing renovation work.

Following the reports of Dubey’s visit, critics have raised questions about alleged double standards, arguing that while ordinary devotees were barred from entering the shrine, a special exception appeared to have been made for a political leader.

The incident has sparked debate over administrative oversight and the temple trust’s role in granting access during the closure period. Authorities are expected to seek clarification from the temple management regarding the circumstances under which the visit took place.