Udupi : Sri Vishwesha Theertha Swamiji of Pejawar Mutt said some people were trying to unnecessarily drag him into the controversy  regarding the Made Snana and Pankthi Bedha even when such practices were prevalent in several temples in the state.

Speaking to reporters here on January 6, Monday, the Pejawar seer said he had suggested Ede Snana as an alternative to Made Snana and added Ede Snana was hygienic as under this practice devotees will roll over Prasadam offered to the Lord.

For the first time, the seer chose to lash out at the state government and said development has been hit hard due to the  internal differences and confusion in the party. He also stated that  the only way to end political confusion was to go in for fresh election.

Commenting on the ill-effects of the UPCL thermal plant, the seer said the people of the region have to put up a united front and fight against the project. He also assured his full backing to the agitation.