Haryana Government Appoints Senior Officer to Oversee Late Godman's Ashram
The Haryana Government has taken a decisive step in managing the affairs of the late godman and yoga guru Dhirendra Brahmachari's ashram. On Friday, the state notified rules that mandate the appointment of a senior Haryana cadre IAS officer or a Haryana Civil Services officer with a minimum of five years of experience to oversee the institution's operations. This move operationalises the Aparna Institution (Taking Over of Management and Control) Act, 2025, which was enacted last year, and comes into immediate effect from the date of publication in the Official Gazette.
Key Provisions of the New Rules
The newly notified Aparna Institution (Taking Over of Management and Control) Rules, 2026, issued by Commissioner and Secretary Amit Kumar Agrawal, outline several critical measures. First, the state government will appoint an administrator from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Haryana cadre, with at least two years of experience, or from the Haryana Civil Service (HCS) with a minimum of five years of experience. This administrator will be responsible for the day-to-day management and strategic direction of the ashram.
Additionally, a four-member committee will be constituted to assist the administrator. The committee members will be drawn from Group-A service officers with at least one year of experience or Group-B officers with a minimum of two years of experience, ensuring a robust support system for governance.
Financial Oversight and Institutional Control
Under the rules, the institution is required to open a dedicated bank account with a nationalised bank. All income, including grants, gifts, and donations, must be deposited into this account and used exclusively for institutional expenses. Any surplus funds may be parked in fixed deposits with a nationalised bank, enhancing financial transparency and accountability. This measure aims to prevent misuse of funds and ensure that resources are directed toward the ashram's upkeep and activities.
The BJP government had taken over the Aparna Ashram, founded by the controversial yoga guru Dhirendra Brahmachari, in November 2025. The ashram is located on a prime 24-acre property in Gurugram, making it a significant asset. Brahmachari, known for his close association with late prime minister Indira Gandhi, left behind a legacy that the state is now managing through these structured rules.
Implications and Broader Context
This development marks a formalisation of the state's control over the ashram, reflecting broader trends in government oversight of religious and spiritual institutions. The appointment of a senior officer underscores the importance of professional management in such establishments, potentially setting a precedent for similar takeovers in the future. The rules ensure that the ashram's operations align with legal and administrative standards, safeguarding public interest.
In summary, the Haryana Government's notification of these rules represents a significant administrative action, blending governance with the management of a historically notable institution. It highlights the state's commitment to orderly control and efficient utilization of assets acquired through legislative measures.
