Junagadh Temple Scandal: Police File Dual Complaints Over Illegal Entry, Financial Misconduct
In a significant development from Rajkot, authorities have initiated legal action following disturbing incidents at a revered religious site. Two separate police complaints have been formally lodged by the Junagadh City mamlatdar concerning alleged illegal activities at the Ambaji Mata temple situated on Girnar mountain.
First Complaint: Illegal Entry and Consumption Violations
The initial complaint, filed by Ashwinkumar Baraiya who serves as the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) at Bhavnath police station, targets several individuals for serious breaches of conduct. Named in this complaint are Abhishek Chauhan alias Boy, Jignesh Dabhi, Chhagan Dabhi, Nikhil Meghnathi, along with two minors approximately 17 years of age.
These individuals face charges under specific legal provisions:
- BNS Section 329(3)
- BNS Section 296(B)
- BNS Section 54 pertaining to impersonation and obscene acts
- Violations under the Prohibition Act
The complaint details that on the night of October 22, 2025, at approximately 8:30 PM, the accused group allegedly gained unauthorized access to the temple's kitchen area. Once inside this sacred space, they are accused of consuming alcohol, using obscene language, and preparing and eating non-vegetarian food—actions considered highly inappropriate within temple premises.
This incident came to light after a video recording of the activities recently went viral on social media platforms. The circulation of this video prompted an official inquiry by the sub-divisional magistrate, which ultimately led to the formal filing of the police complaint.
Second Complaint: Financial Irregularities and Unauthorized Rituals
The second complaint presents an even more complex scenario involving financial misconduct and unauthorized religious practices. This complaint names five individuals: Yogeshgiri (a representative of Neelkanth Temple), Dushyantgiri Aparnathi, Devgiri, Kundangiri Aparnathi, and Bharatnath Rajnath.
These individuals face charges under different BNS sections:
- BNS Section 316(2)(4)
- BNS Section 318(3)
- BNS Section 329(2)
According to Baraiya's detailed statement, a video circulated on January 29, 2026, showed Yogeshgiri and Dushyantgiri performing temple rituals despite not holding official appointments as priests. The footage allegedly captured them allowing unauthorized access to the temple's inner sanctum—a restricted area—and accepting cash directly from devotees, bypassing proper donation channels.
Financial Misconduct Allegations
The financial irregularities extend further, with CCTV footage allegedly showing Dushyantgiri and Devgiri blocking the donation box slot with cloth to prevent devotees' money from being deposited inside the secure collection system.
Additional allegations involve Kundangiri, who was reportedly seen covering the donation box with a handkerchief and personally pocketing money from female devotees. Both Kundangiri and Bharatnath Rajnath face accusations of betraying the temple management and engaging in fraudulent financial activities that compromised the institution's integrity.
The dual complaints highlight multiple layers of alleged misconduct at the sacred site, ranging from behavioral violations to systematic financial exploitation. Authorities continue their investigation into these serious allegations that have shaken the local religious community.
