Is the Centre planning to monetise temple gold? Govt breaks silence

New Delhi: The Centre on Tuesday dismissed reports and viral social media claims suggesting that gold held by temples and religious institutions across the country would be monetised under a proposed government-backed gold bond scheme, calling the speculation “false, misleading and without any basis”.

In an official clarification, the Ministry of Finance said no proposal has been approved to issue gold bonds in exchange for gold reserves held by temple trusts or religious institutions.

The clarification came after several media reports and online posts claimed that the government was planning to bring temple gold under a monetisation programme.

Reacting to the reports, the Finance Ministry said in a post on X, “Speculation and rumours suggesting that the Government is planning to introduce monetisation scheme for Gold held by temple trusts, or any religious institution, across the country are completely false, misleading and without any basis.”

The ministry also rejected claims that gold plating used on temple towers, doors and other structures would be classified as part of India’s strategic gold reserves.

“Claims suggesting that gold plates on temple towers, doors, or other temple structures will be considered as 'Strategic Gold Reserves of India' are false, misleading, and entirely baseless,” it added.

The government urged people not to believe or circulate unverified information, warning that such rumours could create confusion among the public.

It further stated that any future decision related to policy matters or government schemes would be communicated only through official channels, including government websites, authorised public communication platforms and official press releases.