Kolkata: In a significant organisational shake up, the International Society for Krishna Consiousness (ISKCON) has removed its Kolkata Vice president, Radharaman Das, from all official responsibilities and barred him from representing the organisation before the media, goverment authorities or at any public forum.
The decision marks a dramatic development for one of ISKCON’s most recognisable public faces, who has frequently spoken on issues concerning the organisation as well as broader social and religious maters.
The action came to light after Radharaman Das announced on social media that he had been “relived of all responsibilities” within ISKCON and instructed mot to speak onthe organisation’s behalf. Although the post was later deleted, ISKCON subsequently confirmed the decision through an official statement.
According to the organisation, Das has been removed from all administrative and representative roles with immediate effect. He will no longer function as ISKCON Kolkata’s vice president or spokesperson and has been directed not to issue statements or represent the organisation before the media, government agencies or any public platform.
The development follows a controversy surrounding the proposed changes to West Bengal’s mid day meal programme. ISKCON had recently advocated replacing eggs in school meals with vegetarian sources of protein such as paneer and rajma, triggering a political debate across the state. The issue attracted widespread public attention and placed the organisation under intense scrutiny.
While Das had indicated that the disciplinary action was linked to “several matters,” ISKCON has not publicly detailed the specific reasons behind its decision. The organisation has so far refrained from elaborating beyond confirming that the move was taken as part of its internal administrative process.
Radharaman Das has been among ISKCON’s most visible public representatives in recent years, often commenting on issues affecting Hindu communities, religious affairs and humanitarian initiatives. His removal is expected to reshape the organisation’s public communication strategy, particularly in eastern India.
Neither ISKCON nor Das has announced whether the decision will be reviewed or challenged. As of Monday, there has been no indication that the organisation intends to reverse the disciplinary action.
The development has sparked widespread discussion among devotees and observers, with many awaiting further clarification from ISKCON regarding the circumstances that led to the move.
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