Nagpur: Amid ongoing development and beautification works at Deekshabhoomi premises in Nagpur, the issue of underground parking has sparked a significant controversy among the members of the Deekshabhoomi Smarak Samiti. This disagreement has led to a vertical split within the committee.
Rajendra Gavai, Secretary of the Samarak Samiti, publicly accused the Samiti President, Bhadant Arya Nagarjuna Surei Sasai, during a press conference. Gavai criticized the President for not recognizing the duly elected Secretary and withholding authority from him. “The adamant attitude of President Bhante Surai Sasai is hindering development works,” Gavai stated, warning of a potential strong agitation in front of Bhante’s residence.
Gavai suggested that Bhanteji, as the President, should obtain a report from the MRDA to confirm that the underground parking poses no threat to the memorial. He proposed that this report be made public and that experts review the parking issue to eliminate any public confusion. Gavai emphasized the need to address public opposition and confusion regarding the underground parking at Deekshabhoomi, pointing out that Bhante Sasai had been invited to discussions but did not attend.
“People are opposed to the underground parking at Deekshabhoomi. The Samiti members interacted with people, and Bhante Sasai was also invited for discussions. However, he did not attend, which left people angry. He should take the initiative to clear the confusion. We all support him as a religious leader, but the public’s confusion must be addressed,” Gavai expressed.
Dr. Gavai also conveyed his concerns through a letter to Bhanteji, accusing the President of concentrating all authority and not delegating rights to other members.
Gavai claimed that the majority of Smarak Samiti members support him, with only three members siding with Bhanteji, while eight oppose him. Despite this, they do not seek to remove Bhanteji due to his status as a religious leader, but they urge him to understand the members’ sentiments. Gavai alleged that someone is misleading Bhanteji with incorrect advice.
Gavai revealed that Bhanteji issued a notice on February 6, 2024, stating that Gavai had no right to call any meetings as Secretary. The notice, shared with the media, declared void the meeting held on June 21, 2023, due to the lack of a subject for appointing a new Secretary, rendering Gavai’s notice unconstitutional.
Bhanteji’s notice also mentioned that the matter had been filed before the Deputy Charity Commissioner and warned that any further notices from Gavai would be considered contempt of court.
The press conference was attended by notable figures such as Padma Shri Dr. Chandrashekhar Meshram, Vilas Gajghate, N R Sute, Prof. Pradeep Aglave, Prof. D B Dabhade, among others.
