A four-member committee constituted by Gaya District Magistrate Shashank Shubhankar to investigate allegations of misuse of foreign monasteries in Bodh Gaya for commercial purposes is yet to submit its report. The deadline for the report submission was March 7, 2026.
Reasons for Delay
Responding to questions about the delay, inquiry committee chairman Md Shafiq stated that the matter involves technical aspects related to determining commercial usage within monastery premises, which has slowed the process. He added that the inquiry is still underway but declined to specify a timeline for its completion.
Background of the Probe
The probe was initiated to help the Gaya district administration frame its response to a public interest litigation (PIL) filed earlier in the Patna High Court. The petition, moved by a group of Bodh Gaya-based hoteliers, alleged that several foreign monasteries were engaged in commercial activities. These include the sale of personal-use items for pilgrims, ritual materials, mementos, and the use of monastery guest houses for hospitality services.
According to the petitioners, such practices have led to revenue losses for the state exchequer while also adversely impacting the business of local traders and hotel operators in Bodh Gaya. The PIL further alleged violations of the Foreigners Act, particularly the failure of monasteries to submit mandatory Form C to the district police. The form records key details of foreign visitors, including name, nationality, passport and visa information, purpose and duration of stay, and intended departure.
Committee Composition
The inquiry committee, headed by Md Shafiq, ADM (law and order), includes the Gaya Sadar SDM, the chief executive officer of the Bodh Gaya Nagar Parishad, and the circle officer of Bodh Gaya. Officials estimate that over 50 foreign monasteries are currently operational in the area.
Demand for Transparency
Meanwhile, Bodh Gaya Nagrik Vikas Manch convener Suresh Singh has demanded early completion of the probe and urged authorities to make the findings public, citing its impact on local livelihoods. Ngwang Tenzin Gyasto, chairman of the International Buddhist Council in Bodh Gaya, did not respond to calls seeking comment.
