Jain Digest 1986 01 Vol 03 No 01

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA

Page 26

Acharya: Yes, I do. I want that all Swamijis and Munis at Siddhachalam to adhere to. It is very essential for the continuity of the program and the progress.
Question: Guruji, is there a public accountability of the affairs of Siddhachalam, and if so, what are they?
Acharya: You know, Siddhachalam belongs to everyone and hence its affair is open to, I mean, the members who are involved in a way. Siddhachalam was purchased in 1983 by the International Mahavira Jain Mission, a non-profit and tax exempt organization, whose objective is to promote Ahimsa, Peace and the teachings of Arihantas.
The Ashram at Siddhachalam is comprised of a small community of residents and a larger general membership helps to serve and support Sidetachalam physically and financially. Some of the residents work outside of the Ashram and provide monetary support.
Siddhachalam was purchased at a price of $330,000 and there remains a mortgage of $ 95,000. Most of the expenses of Siddhachalam goes for maintenance and improvements. The funds come from contributions and donations, and the list of these are available.
Food expenses of the residents and the guests at Siddhachalam are self-borne. The financial support is provided by Mr. Arun Kothari of New York to meet the required bare needs of the Munis.
As far as accountability of financial affairs, the annual financial statements are there for public scrutiny.
Siddhachalam is open to everyone who believes in the gospel truth of the Arihants. Its accountability is open. Mind you that the Board of Trustees and the executive members of the organization have been selected to avoid groupism. I guess, after a five-year period, elections could be introduced. It is only intended to avoid initial practical problems and to ensure no groupism creeps in.
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to invite all Jain bretherns to support Siddhachalam through their financial contribution in any way they can and in any size. Mr. Madho P. Jain, or Shirley Hardy at (201) 362-9793 could be contacted regarding all contributions to Siddhachalam.
My blessings are with the Federation of Jain As
sociations in all its endeavours. Jai Jinendra.