The Karnataka government has officially taken over the administration of the Gaali Anjaneya Swamy Temple in Byatarayanapura, Bengaluru, citing grave financial mismanagement and irregularities by the temple trust.
A government order (GO) issued on Tuesday declared the temple a “notified institution” under the Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowment Act, 1997. The decision follows widespread public outrage after a viral video appeared to show temple staff mishandling or stealing donation money.
According to the GO, the primary reason for the takeover was poor financial accountability and misuse of temple funds. The muzrai department, alerted by the video, requested the Bengaluru Urban district administration to initiate action under Sections 42 and 43 of the Act.
Following a formal investigation by the additional deputy commissioner and the muzrai department, officials found no financial records maintained for 25 years, lack of savings despite significant donations, and uncoordinated spending by trust members.
Investigators also discovered attempts to forge documents after official notices were issued, further eroding trust. “The stealing of money from offering boxes deeply hurt devotees’ sentiments,” the inquiry report noted.
In response, the district administration recommended the takeover. Meanwhile, temple head priest Ramachandra claimed the incident was from over a year ago and said two committee members were suspended and two staff dismissed at the time.