The lock was broke open in the presence of tahsildhar. According to officials, Keshav Iyengar was serving at Channakeshava temple in Bhuvanahalli for the past several years. The elected representatives and locals had recently complained to the Department of Muzarai about Iyengar being irregular in his duty. They had also sought the authorities for his transfer.
Acting on the complaint, the authorities had relieved Keshav Iyengar from the post and deputed Diwakar as his successor. The deputy commissioner had also directed Keshava Iyengar to handover the charge to the new priest.
But, Iyengar, who objected to the orders, refused to handover the charge and locked the temple and also the main gate. He also stayed away from performing regular puja.
Upon noticing this, the locals informed the tahasildar. But the tahsildar who visited spot was shocked when Keshav Iyengar, refused to handover the keys. He threatened to move court against his transfer order. Efforts made by tahsildar to pacify him, went in vain.
Later, upon seeking permission from the deputy commissioner the lock was forcibly opened bringing the issue that had already aroused curiosity to a peaceful end.
Diwakar performed puja to the deity thus taking over the charge of the temple.
Land mafia
Meanwhile, Keshav Iyengar has alleged the hand of land mafia behind the whole act. He told Deccan Herald that his family has been serving the temple since decades and they have also been given a piece of land in the temple premises.
In view of the proposed airport coming up here, the land prices have skyrocketed, and a person had met him a couple of months ago and forced him to part with the land.
But, he had not given heed to that party as it was their only property. Hence, they have joined hands to replace him as the priest, he alleged.