Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (EP)

Udupi, Feb 10: The amount collected to construct Ram Mandir at Ayodhya has exceeded Rs 1,000 crore, said Pejawar Sri Vishwaprasannateertha Sripada here on Tuesday February 9.

"I am extremely happy with the campaign for collection of donations for the construction of Ram Mandir. Donations by all sections of people are an important development in view of the unity of Hindu society," he told reporters here.

"Our aim is not building Ram Mandir alone. Our priority is establishing Ram Rajya," he added.

"The land around all the temples in the state should be declared as reserved and protected. With it, encroachment by people of other religions can be prevented. This is necessary for peace and harmony in the future," he said.

He further said that reservation on the basis of religion was not right. "Religious leaders should be the voice of the poor in their community. Many people among backward classes have lamented to me that only those who are well to do among the backward classes are benefited by the reservation system."

On the issue of farmers' protest on Delhi border and other parts, he said, "The farmers are correct in protesting on the basis of rights. But it is wrong to continue protests and hinder normal life when the union government has provided opportunities for discussions. We condemn any challenge to the sovereignty of the nation."

He also urged the government to name the circle at Kalsanka as 'Jagadguru Madhwacharya circle'.