Hindu leader claims Vrindavan ashram split by rival factions

Dinesh Sharma, chairman of the Sri Krishna Janmabhumi Struggle Trust and a known Hindu nationalist leader, has raised concerns about divisions within Premanad Maharaj's ashram in Vrindavan, a major pilgrimage site in Uttar Pradesh. According to Sharma, the Keli Kunj ashram has become polarized into two opposing factions. Sharma claimed that the ashram has fallen under the influence of land mafia operators, suggesting that illicit land acquisition activities may be occurring at the religious site. The allegations point to a broader problem affecting religious institutions in pilgrimage cities, where valuable property and resources can attract unscrupulous elements. Sharma's statement underscores growing concerns about the management and control of spiritual centers in India's most sacred religious destinations. The situation highlights tensions between those claiming to represent authentic spiritual practice and others accused of exploiting the ashram's resources and reputation.