Salangpur: Controversial carved mural panels distorting Hanuman ji were removed earlier in the morning from the platform of ‘King of Salangpur’ statue, just after midnight today by Vadtal branch of Swaminarayan sect.

According to those present on the site, the flood lights were switched off just after midnight and cover-curtains were placed around the platform before removing the panels. A large number of police men were present on the site. The panels were replaced with temporary PVC – polyester material made panels that are non controversial in nature and exclude Hanuman ji. The color of these couple of panels is in mismatch with other panels. However the permanent panels, order for which has been given, shall match the other panels.

Morning pictures from Salangpur, Gujarat pic.twitter.com/xCYJ4ZkNDE

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The controversy surrounding the murals had started in the last week of August after some devotees noticed controversial panels and shared the photographs on social media. Initially, the mandir management had used plastic curtains to conceal the murals, but later they were withdrawn as Vadtal gadi based Nautam Swami had taken a strong stand in favor of the panels.

As the issue caught up momentum, and saints other than those belonging to Swaminarayan sect started protests, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Government of Gujarat initiated efforts. Yesterday, two meetings were held in Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad. The meeting at Gandhinagar was held at Chief Minsiter’s residence in the presence of Swaminarayan saints, ministers and others. The meeting in Ahmedabad was held at Shivanand Asheram in presence of Swaminarayan saints, non-Swaminarayan saints and VHP leaders. Thanks to the compromising approach of Vadtal Gadi chief Rakesh prasad, it was announced after this meeting that controversial murals will be removed by the next sunrise and other issues of concern will be discussed in subsequent meetings in which all branches of Swaminarayan sect and other sects of Sanatan tradition shall participate. DeshGujarat