Clash between priests of ISKCON temple in Patna and Bhagalpur

• Serious accusations made against each other

• Dispute over the administration and control of the temples

Clash over Temple management escalates between ISKCON priests in Patna and Bhagalpur

Patna (Bihar) – A dispute has surfaced between the priests of ISKCON temples in Patna and Bhagalpur over the management and control of the temples. The conflict escalated into a physical fight on October 6th, where more than 12 priests were injured. The presidents of these temples have made serious allegations against each other concerning temple management and other issues. A complaint has been filed with the Police regarding the incident.

The conflict came to light after the president of ISKCON Bhagalpur, Rakshak Giridhari Das, allegedly released a video of ISKCON Patna president, Krishna Kripa Das, also known as Kanhaiya Singh, showing him in a compromising situation with a woman.

ISKCON’s public relations officer, Nand Gopal Das, stated that the video was from seven years ago, but it has now reignited conflicts.

There have been accusations of financial mismanagement, indecent activities, and misconduct involving female devotees, as well as violence against Brahmacharis at the Patna temple. It is said that higher officials of the temple were aware of these issues. Brahmacharis from ISKCON Bhagalpur filed a complaint with ISKCON’s regulatory board in Kolkata regarding these issues. Subsequently, a meeting was called by ISKCON Patna officials, where Bhagalpur priests were allegedly beaten up by security personnel.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Krishna Murari Prasad stated that the conflict appears to have arisen due to internal factionalism over the control of the ISKCON temples.

Editorial Perspective

No doubt that a thorough investigation into these serious accusations is needed. Moreover, at a time when Hindu unity is so critical, internal disputes within temples must be resolved on priority. Else, anti-Hindu elements are waiting to create and widen rifts among Hindus.