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The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has removed Kolkata chapter Vice-President and spokesperson Radharaman Das from all institutional responsibilities, citing repeated violations of organisational rules and protocols.
The decision, reported by Indian media on Monday, came after Radharaman Das made a series of public comments on politically and religiously sensitive issues, including allegations of persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh and his support for ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das.
In a statement issued on Sunday, ISKCON said Radharaman Das had been placed on "mandatory leave" and instructed not to represent the organisation before the media, government authorities or at any public forum.
The organisation stressed that the disciplinary action was not taken because of his opinions but due to his repeated failure to comply with institutional guidelines despite several warnings over the past few years.
According to ISKCON, Radharaman Das acted unilaterally on matters contrary to the organisation's official position and intervened in issues beyond his authority, with some of his actions allegedly posing risks to the safety and well-being of ISKCON members worldwide.
Responding to the decision, Radharaman Das said he respected the authorities' directive and would comply fully with the restrictions.
He claimed that the reasons cited against him included his public comments and media interviews regarding the alleged persecution of Hindus and devotees in Bangladesh, his support for Chinmoy Krishna Das, sending a legal notice to former Union minister Maneka Gandhi over remarks about ISKCON, and filing a cyber complaint against comedian Surleen Kaur for alleged derogatory comments about the organisation.
The disciplinary action comes shortly after the West Bengal government announced that ISKCON would assist in preparing and distributing midday meals for schools under the Kolkata Municipal Corporation.
While Radharaman Das suggested that his public remarks may have contributed to the action, ISKCON maintained that the decision was based on repeated breaches of organisational discipline, unauthorised public statements and actions beyond his assigned responsibilities.
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