Supreme Court Resolves 24-Year Hare Krishna Temple Dispute in Bengaluru

The Supreme Court has finally settled a long-standing 24-year property dispute, ruling that the Hare Krishna temple in Bengaluru belongs to the ISKCON Society in the city. This decision overturns the Karnataka High Court's previous ruling in favor of ISKCON Mumbai.

Hare Krishna TempleIskconBengaluruSupreme CourtProperty DisputeReal Estate MumbaiMay 16, 2025

Supreme Court Resolves 24-Year Hare Krishna Temple Dispute in Bengaluru
Real Estate Mumbai:Bringing an end to a 24-year-old property dispute, the Supreme Court on Friday held that the Hare Krishna temple in Bengaluru belongs to the ISKCON Society in the city. This landmark decision has significant implications for the management and future of the iconic temple and its educational complex.nnA bench comprising Justice Abhay Oka and Justice Augustine George Masih overturned the Karnataka High Court’s judgement, which had ruled that the property belonged to the ISKCON Society, Mumbai. The top court was hearing the plea of ISKCON Bangalore against the Karnataka Court’s decision over control of the temple.nnISKCON Bangalore had moved the top court on June 2, 2011, challenging the high court’s verdict of May 23, 2011. In the plea, ISKCON Bangalore, represented by its office-bearer Kodandarama Dasa, contested the high court judgment that overturned a 2009 order of a local court in Bengaluru.nnThe trial court had earlier ruled in favor of ISKCON Bangalore and recognized its legal title. It also granted a permanent injunction against ISKCON Mumbai. However, the high court reversed the trial court’s ruling and upheld a counterclaim by ISKCON Mumbai, granting them control over the temple.nnISKCON Bangalore, a Karnataka-registered society, contends that it has been operating independently and managing the Bengaluru temple for decades. ISKCON Mumbai, registered under the national Societies Registration Act of 1860 and the Bombay Public Trusts Act, 1950, claims that ISKCON Bangalore is merely its branch and that the property in question rightfully belongs under its jurisdiction.nnThe Supreme Court’s decision is a significant victory for ISKCON Bangalore, which now has the legal right to manage and operate the temple and its educational facilities. This resolution is expected to bring stability and clarity to the management of the temple, which has been a focal point of spiritual and cultural activities in Bengaluru for many years.nnThe Hare Krishna movement, also known as the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), was founded in 1966 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. It is a significant religious and cultural organization with a presence in many countries, promoting the teachings of Lord Krishna as found in the Bhagavad Gita and other ancient Indian scriptures.nnThis decision by the Supreme Court not only settles a long-standing legal dispute but also reinforces the principles of independence and local governance within religious organizations. It is a testament to the judicial system's commitment to resolving complex legal issues and ensuring that the rights of all parties are protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hare Krishna movement?

The Hare Krishna movement, officially known as the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), is a religious organization founded in 1966 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. It promotes the teachings of Lord Krishna as found in the Bhagavad Gita and other ancient Indian scriptures.

What was the main issue in the property dispute?

The main issue in the property dispute was the ownership of the Hare Krishna temple and its educational complex in Bengaluru. ISKCON Bangalore claimed that it had been operating independently and managing the temple for decades, while ISKCON Mumbai argued that ISKCON Bangalore was a branch and the property belonged to them.

Who made the final decision in the dispute?

The final decision in the dispute was made by the Supreme Court of India, which ruled that the Hare Krishna temple in Bengaluru belongs to the ISKCON Society in the city.

What are the implications of the Supreme Court's decision?

The Supreme Court's decision has significant implications for the management and future of the temple. It grants ISKCON Bangalore the legal right to manage and operate the temple and its educational facilities, bringing stability and clarity to its governance.

How long did the property dispute last?

The property dispute lasted for 24 years, with multiple legal battles and court rulings before the Supreme Court made the final decision.

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