तेरापंथ शासन का कार्यकारी हस्ताक्षर महासभा - महासभा का इतिहास
By मुनि सुमेरमल (मंत्रीमुनि), मुनि उदितकुमार
Summary
This document is a historical account of the Jain Shwetambar Terapanth religious order, focusing on the opposition it has faced since its founding by Acharya Bhikshu. The text argues that every organization faces challenges, and the vitality of the Terapanth depends on its workers. It highlights the crucial role of both monks and lay followers (shravaks) in overcoming obstacles. The opposition to the Terapanth is categorized into four types: diverse forms of opposition, disruptions to initiations (diksha), legal battles, and trials by fire. The narrative details how lay followers, both individually and through the Mahasabha (assembly), used their influence and wisdom to navigate these conflicts. Specific historical instances of opposition are mentioned, including the expulsion of Acharya Bhikshu from Udaipur in 1858 and a ban on Acharya Bharimalji in 1878. A major focus is the opposition to child initiation during the era of Acharya Tulsi, particularly in Jaipur in 1949. The text describes how opponents formed a committee, distributed pamphlets, and enlisted politicians and intellectuals to stop the initiation. Acharya Tulsi held public discourses to explain the practice. Key figures who initially opposed but later became supportive include socialist leader Jaya Prakash Narayan and several scholars. The state government, led by Chief Minister Hiralal Shastri, was firmly against the initiation. In response, Terapanth leaders like Shubhkaran Dasani met with central government officials, including Sardar Patel and Sir Gopal Swami Ayyangar, to argue for their right to practice their religion. Despite the imposition of Section 144 in Jaipur to prevent the procession, the Terapanth community remained resolute, with leaders from across the country gathering in Jaipur to support the initiation.
Conclusion
The document underscores that the Terapanth religious order, born from revolution, has consistently faced opposition throughout its history, yet has never been subdued. The key implication is that the survival and expansion of the order have depended critically on the active, strategic intervention of its lay followers (shravakas), who used their influence, legal acumen, and organizational skills to counter state-level and societal resistance. Outcomes detailed include the successful navigation of severe crises, such as the 1949 Jaipur opposition to youth initiation, where coordinated efforts by the Mahasabha and key individuals like Shubhkaran Dasani engaged national leaders and neutralized government hostility. Ultimately, the text demonstrates that while monks provide spiritual leadership, the lay community’s pragmatic and assertive action has been indispensable in preserving the order’s integrity and ensuring its continued growth against institutional and political challenges.