Brahmo Samaj Temple Dispute Shimla: Himachal High Court Pulls Up Petitioners Over Non-Cooperation
Shimla, March 26,
In a significant development in the November 2024 dispute at the Brahmo Samaj Temple near the A.G. Office, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has taken a firm view on the conduct of petitioners, observing that they cannot seek court-monitored investigation while refusing to cooperate with the probe.
Hearing connected criminal writ petitions on March 24, 2026, a Division Bench led by Chief Justice G.S. Sandhawalia and Justice Bipin C. Negi noted from the police status report that key documents—including the original trust deed of the Himalaya Brahmo Samaj—had not been furnished despite formal notices.
Quoting directly from the order, the Court observed that “the petitioner, as such, cannot sit back and refuse to join the investigation or produce the necessary documents, which have been asked for.”
This observation comes against the backdrop of allegations that the police investigation was not being properly conducted—claims made by petitioner Lalit Verma and others. However, the State’s status report countered that the petitioners themselves were not cooperating and had declined to produce critical records even after issuance of notice under Section 94 of the BNSS.
Also read:SLP only on Worship rights, say Himalayan Brahmo Samaj devotees as SC upholds HC ruling
Multiple FIRs, Parallel Legal Tracks
The case stems from a confrontation in November 2024 when members of the Brahmo Samaj were allegedly attacked during prayers. Police registered multiple FIRs in the matter, with at least two already resulting in charge sheets, while another saw a cancellation report citing lack of prima facie evidence.
The High Court order confirms that:
- Charge sheets have been filed in FIR Nos. 204 and 205
- Investigation is ongoing in FIR Nos. 212 and 215
- A cancellation report has been submitted in FIR No. 207
Court Directs Production and Safekeeping of Trust Deed
Taking note of the impasse over documents, the Court directed that the original trust deed and related records must be produced before the Investigating Officer. It further clarified that if the police seek to retain the document, an application must be moved so that it can be kept in safe custody under court supervision.
The Bench also recorded an assurance from the petitioners’ counsel that they would now cooperate with the investigation to enable a clearer factual assessment.
Trust Brought on Record
In a parallel procedural development, the Court has taken on record the reply filed by Respondent No. 14—the Himalaya Brahmo Samaj Trust—indicating its formal inclusion in the proceedings.
Matter to Continue
The case has been listed for further hearing on May 24, 2026, with the Court also directing that translated copies of documents be placed on record wherever required.
Broader Implication
The order signals a clear judicial stance: parties invoking the court’s jurisdiction for intervention in criminal investigations must themselves adhere to procedural obligations. The Court’s remarks underline that non-cooperation can weaken claims of investigative bias or inadequacy—an aspect likely to shape the trajectory of this multi-FIR dispute going forward.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.