Gaya: The Patna high court on Wednesday dismissed two public interest litigations (PILs) filed by Bodh Gaya Hotel Association general secretary Sudama Kumar against monk in charges of various Buddhist monasteries in Bodh Gaya.The association had filed two PILs, one in 2017 and another this year, seeking action over alleged illegal constructions at foreign monasteries in Bodh Gaya, alleged violations of building laws, commercial use of monastery premises for hospitality activities, revenue loss to the govt and alleged non-compliance with rules governing the arrival, stay and departure of foreign visitors.The 2017 PIL had 24 respondents, including 10 administrative officials and monk in charges of monasteries, while the latest petition named 81 respondents.Reacting to the dismissal, Kumar said the association would challenge the order in the Supreme Court.Meanwhile, Bodh Gaya Monasteries Association chairperson Priya Pal Bhikkhu said during the clubbed hearing of the two PILs on Wednesday, Acting Chief Justice Sudhir Singh briefly interacted with him and other Buddhist monks present in the court.Monasteries association lawyer Arun Kumar said the dismissal meant the allegations raised by the hotel association had not been entertained by the court. He added that monk in charges of nine monasteries facing substantial compounding fees imposed by Bodh Gaya Nagar Parishad would have to pursue separate legal remedies for relief from the fees.The lawyer said the high court’s final written order was expected within a few days and would provide clarity on the court’s directions.
