VIP Access Controversy: Nishikant Dubey's Bhimashankar Visit Angers Pune Devotees

Pune, 14th March 2026: A controversy has erupted after Jharkhand BJP MP Dr Nishikant Dubey allegedly entered the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple for darshan on Saturday, even though the shrine has been closed to the public for more than two months due to renovation work.

The temple, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, located in Pune district, has remained shut for devotees since early January 2026. Authorities had ordered the closure citing safety risks from ongoing redevelopment work and the use of heavy machinery inside the temple complex. Officials had earlier announced that the temple would remain closed to the public at least until April 10.

According to sources, Dubey arrived at Bhimashankar by helicopter along with his wife and reportedly entered the temple around 2 pm to perform darshan. The visit has triggered sharp reactions from devotees and residents, many of whom have been unable to enter the shrine for months.

The Pune district administration has said that no official permission was granted for the visit. Officials stated that the Shree Kshetra Bhimashankar Sansthan trust and local authorities are examining how the entry was allowed despite the closure.

Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi said the administration would take strict action against anyone found responsible for facilitating unauthorized access to the temple premises. The incident has sparked outrage on social media and among devotees, who questioned why ordinary pilgrims were denied entry even during major religious occasions, including Mahashivratri, while a political figure allegedly received special access.

Many locals have termed the episode an example of “VIP culture” at religious places, raising concerns about equality before the law and transparency in the enforcement of restrictions imposed during the renovation work.

Authorities reiterated that the temple remains closed to the public to ensure safety during the ongoing redevelopment work. Officials also indicated that unauthorized entry into restricted premises could attract legal action under relevant provisions related to trespassing or violation of official orders.

The district administration and the temple trust are expected to issue further clarification after examining the circumstances under which the visit took place.