A Historic Verdict That Reshapes the ISKCON Landscape in India
In a landmark ruling that settles a 24-year-long legal tussle, the Supreme Court of India has declared that the ISKCON temple in Bengaluru is the rightful property of the ISKCON Society Bangalore, not ISKCON Mumbai. The judgment, delivered on May 16, 2025, by a bench comprising Justice Abhay S. Oka and Justice Augustine George Masih, brings clarity to a decades-old ownership dispute and reaffirms the legal independence of the Bangalore-based society.
This momentous decision not only vindicates ISKCON Bangalore's long-standing stand but also sets a vital precedent for how spiritual organizations with shared heritage but differing ideologies or leadership structures can be legally recognized.
The Dispute: Two Societies, One Temple
The origins of the conflict trace back to 2001, when ISKCON Bangalore, registered in 1978 under the Karnataka Societies Registration Act, approached the courts for a declaration of its ownership over the Hare Krishna Hills temple complex in Rajajinagar, Bengaluru.
The Bangalore society had:
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Acquired the land in 1988 from the Bangalore Development Authority
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Constructed a grand temple and cultural complex using devotee donations
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Functioned independently of ISKCON Mumbai, with its own board and administration
On the other hand, ISKCON Mumbai – the original body registered in 1966 by Srila Prabhupada and headquartered at Hare Krishna Land, Juhu – claimed that ISKCON Bangalore was merely a branch, and that all its properties ultimately vested with the Mumbai society.
The Legal Journey: From Trial Court to Supreme Court
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2009: A trial court in Bengaluru ruled in favor of ISKCON Bangalore, recognizing it as the absolute owner of the Hare Krishna Hills property and restraining ISKCON Mumbai from interference.
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2011: The Karnataka High Court overturned the trial court’s ruling, siding with ISKCON Mumbai and declaring ISKCON Bangalore as a branch.
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2025: The Supreme Court reversed the High Court's judgment, restored the 2009 trial court decree, and ruled decisively in favor of ISKCON Bangalore.
What the Supreme Court Said
The apex court made it clear that:
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ISKCON Bangalore is an autonomous legal entity, duly registered and operational since 1978.
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The title and possession of the Bengaluru temple complex rightfully belongs to ISKCON Bangalore.
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ISKCON Mumbai has no administrative authority or ownership claim over the temple or its affairs.
This ruling not only restores the autonomy and dignity of ISKCON Bangalore but also emphasizes the importance of respecting legal registrations and institutional independence.
Why This Matters: Beyond a Property Dispute
While the case revolved around property rights, its implications are far more significant:
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Spiritual Governance: The verdict affirms the right of spiritual organizations to operate independently while still upholding the teachings of their founder.
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Legal Clarity: It sets a powerful precedent for religious societies operating under different jurisdictions and philosophies.
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Devotee Confidence: For the millions who support ISKCON Bangalore, this is a moment of validation and joy.
A Victory for Devotees and Dharma
For ISKCON Bangalore and its supporters, this is more than just a legal win—it's a spiritual and emotional triumph. It reaffirms their commitment to the legacy of Srila Prabhupada, executed through a vision they believe aligns closely with his instructions.
The Hare Krishna Hills in Bengaluru will continue to thrive as a beacon of devotion, community service, and Krishna consciousness—under the banner of ISKCON Bangalore, an entity that is now legally, spiritually, and institutionally independent.
