ISKCON Budhanilkantha Operator Detained As Police Investigate Child-Related Complaint
Police have taken an ISKCON Budhanilkantha operator into custody for investigation under the Children's Act following a complaint involving a minor. The case has drawn wider attention after additional allegations of child abuse and institutional misconduct at the Bhaktivedanta Gurukul surfaced in separate complaints.
Nepal Police have detained an operator associated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in Budhanilkantha as part of an investigation into a child-related offence.
According to police, Suraj Krishna Shrestha, an ISKCON member linked to the Bhaktivedanta Gurukul in Budhanilkantha Municipality-5, is currently in custody under provisions of the Children's Act. Authorities stated that the arrest was made several days ago following the registration of a complaint involving a minor.
District Police Range Kathmandu spokesperson Pawan Kumar Bhattarai confirmed that the case remains under investigation. Police said the detention is based on a single complaint and clarified that no additional charges have been filed at this stage. Officials also stated that the case is not currently being investigated as a rape case.
The arrest comes as serious allegations concerning the Bhaktivedanta Gurukul have emerged through complaints filed with law enforcement authorities. According to complainants, a young boy allegedly faced repeated physical punishment while staying at the institution between 2023 and 2024. The complaint claims the child was subjected to harsh disciplinary measures that resulted in physical and psychological distress.
Separate complaints have also been filed regarding allegations of sexual abuse involving a minor girl at the same institution. According to documents submitted to investigators, the alleged incidents took place between 2021 and 2022. The family of the child has sought legal action and an investigation into the matter.
The investigation remains active, with police continuing to examine the allegations and gather relevant information.
The case has attracted public attention due to allegations that several individuals connected to the institution may have attempted to interfere with investigations. These claims are also being examined as part of the broader inquiry.
Police have stated that investigations will continue based on the complaints received, and further action will depend on the findings of the ongoing inquiry.
Published 4 days ago in Crime