Fresh Controversy Surrounds Premanand Maharaj-Linked Ashram Over Missing Anuj Chaudhary

A fresh controversy has emerged around an ashram associated with spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj in Vrindavan after the family of an 18-year-old man from Hathras alleged that they were unable to contact or meet him for nearly three months.

The development comes amid an ongoing police investigation into the death of Premanand Maharaj’s disciple Rasik Dulari Sharan, whose original name was Deepak Lodhi. Police are examining the circumstances surrounding his death after he fell from the fourth floor of a building in Vrindavan.

Family Searches for Anuj for Three Months

Anuj Chaudhary, a resident of Sadabad in Hathras district, reportedly travelled to Vrindavan around three months ago to seek initiation from Premanand Maharaj. According to his family, he did not return home after leaving for Vrindavan, and they were unable to establish regular contact with him.

The family said they repeatedly visited the ashram while searching for Anuj. They alleged that they were not given clear information about his whereabouts and were unable to meet him despite their repeated requests. These allegations have been reported by multiple news outlets.

Ashram Reportedly Confirms His Presence

According to reports, the situation changed after media attention and administrative pressure increased following Rasik Dulari Sharan’s death. The family claims that the ashram management eventually acknowledged that Anuj was present there and assured them that he would be handed over after completing the necessary formalities.

The family has questioned why they were allegedly unable to receive information about Anuj or meet him for such an extended period if he was safe inside the ashram.

Questions Following Disciple’s Death

The controversy has surfaced while the investigation into Rasik Dulari Sharan’s death remains underway. Police have examined CCTV footage, forensic evidence and other material as part of the probe. Initial police statements indicated that suicide was suspected, but investigators have been examining the circumstances surrounding the death.

Rasik Dulari Sharan’s family had also previously raised concerns about difficulties in meeting him, according to reports.

Calls for Transparent Investigation

The latest allegations have led to calls from family members and local residents for greater transparency regarding the functioning of the ashram, including the treatment and welfare of devotees residing there.

The allegations against the ashram have not, by themselves, established wrongdoing, and the claims regarding Anuj’s circumstances and the earlier death remain matters for the authorities to investigate. The focus is now on establishing the facts surrounding Anuj’s stay at the ashram and ensuring that his family can obtain clear information about his wellbeing.