Jharkhand controversy: Another fasting monk dies

The Jharkhand government’s decision to declare Shri Sammed Shikharji as a tourist place has claimed another victim. A Jain monk fasting against the move died in Jaipur, a community leader said on Friday.

Samarth Sagar (74) died at around 2 am on Friday after fasting for five days, said Rajasthan Jain Sabha president Subhash Chandra Jain.

Also Watch: Jain community protests after Shri Sammed Shikharji declared tourist spot

Sagar was on a hunger strike at the Sanghiji temple in Sanganer area here.

This comes days after another Jain monk, Sugyeysagar Maharaj (72), fasting to protest the Jharkhand government’s decision, died at the temple on Tuesday.

Also Read: Centre stays tourism activities in Parasnath Hills, ends Jain shrine debate

Shri Sammed Shikharji is a Jain pilgrimage centre in the Parasnath hills of Jharkhand. The state government decided to turn it into a tourist attraction, which irked the community.

The Centre on Thursday stayed all tourism activities at the Parasnath hills and directed the Jharkhand government to immediately take all steps necessary to protect its sanctity.

(With Agency inputs)