Trustees and Life members allege stonewalling on Trust Deed amendment, question motives behind clinging to office
The Aryavarth Express, Bengaluru: The Salasar Balaji Seva Samiti is facing an unprecedented crisis of credibility as life members intensify their demand for an amendment to the Trust Deed—widely seen as the only way to resolve the ongoing dispute within the organisation. The spotlight is now firmly on Samiti President Pramod Murarka and Secretary Manit Somani, who are being accused of deliberately avoiding dialogue and refusing to take responsibility.
According to several trustees and life members, repeated queries addressed to the President and the Secretary on the proposed Trust Deed amendment have gone unanswered. No formal clarification, meeting or written response has been issued so far, leading to allegations of institutional opacity and authoritarian functioning.
trustees and Life members argue that the authority to amend the Trust Deed lies solely with the trustees whose names are recorded in the document. “If there is genuine intent, the amendment is entirely possible. The continued silence only raises uncomfortable questions,” a senior life member said.
With frustration mounting, the issue has moved beyond procedural disagreement to a question of moral accountability. Life members are now openly demanding that Murarka and Somani step down if they are unwilling to facilitate the amendment. “Holding on to positions while stonewalling a matter of collective faith and transparency is indefensible,” another member remarked.
The refusal of the office-bearers to relinquish their posts has further fuelled suspicion. Why, life members ask, are the President and Secretary so determined to retain control when a large section of the Samiti is seeking reform? Is the post meant for service to devotees, or has it become an instrument of power?
Members emphasise that no individual or office can be placed above faith and devotion to Salasar Balaji. They insist that stepping aside, if it helps restore trust and unity, would itself be an act of service.
As matters stand, the leadership’s silence has only deepened the standoff. The Trust Deed amendment has now become a litmus test for transparency, intent and integrity within the Salasar Balaji Seva Samiti—one that will ultimately determine whether the institution stands for collective devotion or for the authority of a few.
