BJP demands reconstruction of Krishna temple in Moscow

Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday demanded in Lok Sabha reconstruction of a 'Hare Krishna' temple in Moscow and asked Government to convey its views to the Russian authorities.

Raising the issue during the Zero Hour, BJP's Deputy Leader V K Malhotra said a new temple should be constructed since the older temple had been demolished. The design for the new temple has also been approved, he said.

Claiming that the Mayor of London and some influential bodies have supported the reconstruction of the temple, Malhotra said an orthodox group in Russia was opposing it. Party colleague Santhosh Kumar Gangwar supported him in his contention.

Prabhunath Singh (JD-U) appealed to government to allow an increase in MPs' quota to recommend free treatment to poor people in hospitals. His demand was supported by several MPs cutting across party lines.

Observing that at present members can only recommend 10 people for free treatment, Singh also wanted Government to release necessary assistance to meet the needs of poor people.

Ramjilal Suman (Samajwadi Party) urged the government to restore the minority character of Aligarh Muslim University.