Premanand Maharaj security demand grows amid ashram controversy

Prominent members of the saint community are calling on Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to increase security for Premanand Maharaj, a well-known saint in Vrindavan. The demand follows reports of internal factionalism and potential threats within his ashram.

Dinesh Sharma, President of the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Sangharsh Nyas, has formally written to the Chief Minister citing concerns that Maharaj’s life may be at risk. Sharma alleged that the ashram has split into two factions: one consisting of genuine saints and another involving elements described as land and child mafias. He further claimed that these groups have seized approximately 15 smaller ashrams and accumulated significant wealth through land sales.

Other religious leaders, including Varun Das Ji Maharaj and Mahant Sitaram Das, have expressed support for the security request, noting that Maharaj is a source of pride for the Sanatan community. The calls for protection come amid heightened tension following the death of a 25-year-old devotee, Deepak Lodhi, who fell from the fourth floor of the ashram, an incident currently under police and forensic investigation.