How are Hindu temples administered and who is a shebait in Kolkata?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Hindu temples in Kolkata are administered by a shebait or a trustee who manages the temple property and conducts worship. The Calcutta High Court has held that a shebait has both a beneficial interest and a fiduciary duty in the debottar property.

Under the West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act 1997 and the relevant state temple legislation, the shebait must maintain the deity, conduct daily worship, and preserve temple assets. The office of shebait is hereditary or contractual depending on the terms of the endowment.

The state government or devaswom board may assume administration of temples under statutory schemes. A shebait can be removed for mismanagement or non-performance of religious duties.