Nathjogi community alleges encroachment on land of three Gorakhnath temples in Nagpur region, seeks probe

A dispute has arisen over the land and properties of three Gorakhnath temples in Nagpur and surrounding areas. The Nathjogi community has alleged alleged encroachment on temple land, removal of ancient idols and alteration of the temples' original character. The community has demanded an impartial investigation into the entire matter.

The issue was raised at a press conference on Monday, October 13. Yogi Shankarnath Jadhav, adviser to the Maharashtriya Sampurna Nag Jogi Samaj Sudhar Sanstha, questioned the use of properties of the Mahayogi Gorakhnath temple at Jagnath Budhwari, as well as the temples at Ramtek and Lakadganj.

According to Jadhav, about 2,700 sq ft of land was donated for the Gorakhnath temple at Jagnath Budhwari through a deed registered in 1909. He claimed the land was to be used only for temple purposes, but an attempt was made to gain private possession of it through alleged manipulation of documents. He has also levelled allegations against Amol Thakre, an office-bearer of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, in this matter. The response of the party concerned to these allegations could not be obtained.

Jadhav alleged that the original idols of Mahayogi Gorakhnath, Sai Baba and Lord Dattatreya installed in the temple were moved from their place. According to him, the old cellar and ancient structure were also demolished, changing the temple's original character. He also claimed that after the community protested, other idols were brought and placed on the samadhis of mahants. It was also alleged that a tin shed and an iron gate at the temple entrance obstruct traditional worship.

The Nathjogi community has also objected to the use of about 55 acres of land of the Adinath Gorakhnath temple at Ramtek. Jadhav alleged that parts of this land are being used for a hotel and other commercial activities. It has also been claimed that shops have been built on about 15,000 sq ft of land of the Vimaleshwar Gorakhnath temple at Lakadganj, and that religious property is being used commercially.

The community has demanded a detailed investigation into the land records, actual possession, construction permissions, alleged encroachment and management arrangements of all three temples. Jadhav also alleged that people were misled through the alleged misuse of the name of Yogi Adityanath and the religious institution associated with him. These allegations have not been independently verified.

According to Jadhav, the Nathjogi community has been fighting a legal battle for about two decades to protect the temples' properties. He claimed that the community has not got justice despite repeated efforts before the Charity Commissioner.

A memorandum will now be submitted to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis seeking an investigation into the properties of the three temples. An appeal has also been made to senior Vishwa Hindu Parishad office-bearers to intervene.

Jadhav said October 22 is Gorakhnath Prakat Diwas. He appealed to the government to intervene and order an inquiry before that date and act on the community's demands. Failing that, he warned of starting an intense agitation by democratic means.

Gorakhnath Mandir Seva Samiti president Manish Pund, secretary Purushottam Kokate, treasurer Sahil Jadhav and other office-bearers of the community were present at the press conference.