Ahmedabad: A controversy has erupted at the Bharti Ashram located in the Sarkhej area of the city after Hariharanand Bapu, along with 100 of his supporters, took control of the disputed Ashram late Thursday night. As of now, Hariharananda Bapu is residing in the Ashram under police presence.

Previously, the administration of this Ashram was under Jagatguru Mahamandaleshwar 1008 Bharti Bapu. After his death, Rishi Bharti took over the management of this Ashram, leading to a legal dispute. Of the four ashrams established by Bharti Bapu, three are managed by Hariharananda Bapu. However, the Sarkhej Bharti Ashram had been managed by Rishi Bharti for a long time.

Hariharananda Bapu has accused Rishi Bharti of taking control of the Sarkhej Ashram through a false will. The Ashram is estimated to be worth over 50 crores, escalating the dispute over its administration. Hariharananda Bapu claims that since he manages three of the ashrams, he should also be in charge of this fourth one. A resolution has been submitted by the Trust Board to the Commissioner, recommending that Hariharananda Bapu manage the Bharti Ashram in Sarkhej.

After taking control of the Bharti Ashram with his supporters last night, Hariharananda Bapu alleged that Rishi Bharti had failed to conduct audits for three years and had not provided any account books. He also claimed that Rishi Bharti was collecting rent from the shops and operating a PG (paying guest) facility, with all the income being the property of the trust.

Following information that Hariharananda Bapu and his supporters were going to occupy the Bharti Ashram, tight security was arranged by the police, who later instructed the supporters to leave the premises.

In response, Rishi Bharti Bapu stated that the matter is currently in court and expressed full faith in the judicial process. He affirmed that he will abide by the court’s decision, whatever it may be. DeshGujarat