Indore, Trouble appears to be mounting for Punit Bhatt, the chief priest of the Khajrana Ganesh Temple. On Tuesday, his wife, Dr. Indra Bhatt, attended the public grievance hearing ( Jansunwai ) to submit a written complaint to the Collector, demanding Punit Bhatt's removal from the position of chief priest. Her complaint includes several serious allegations, ranging from dowry harassment and domestic violence to alleged irregularities regarding temple donation funds.

  Complaint Lodged at Public Grievance Hearing  

Dr. Indra Bhatt stated that she had previously registered a case of dowry harassment against her husband. Additionally, a complaint regarding domestic violence had been filed with the police. She has now approached the administration during the public hearing, seeking intervention in the matter and demanding impartial action.

  Allegations of Misusing Influence  

The complainant alleges that she was evicted from her home approximately six months ago. Subsequently, in April 2026, she initiated legal proceedings against her husband. She claims that Punit Bhatt is attempting to influence the case by citing his connections and clout.

Dr. Bhatt alleged that her husband boasts of having direct links with high-ranking government officials due to his role as the temple's chief priest. She further claimed that she is being constantly intimidated and fears an untoward incident.

  Allegations of Irregularities in Donation Funds  

During the hearing, Dr. Indra Bhatt also leveled serious allegations concerning the temple's donation funds. She claimed that there is large-scale alleged misappropriation of the donations received by the temple.

She stated that her husband would often bring home large amounts of cash upon returning from the temple. She alleged that despite raising objections regarding this matter on several occasions, there has been no change in the situation.

However, these allegations have not been independently verified, and there has been no official response from the concerned party regarding this matter.   Demand for suspension citing the Temple Act  

Citing provisions of the Temple Act, the complainant stated that if an FIR is registered against a priest or office-bearer, they can be suspended from their position. On this basis, she has demanded that the administration remove Puneet Bhatt from his post with immediate effect.

  Dispute arose after marriage  

According to Dr. Indra Bhatt, she married Puneet Bhatt in May 2025. She alleged that shortly after the marriage, her in-laws began subjecting her to mental and physical harassment over demands for dowry.

Based on the complaint, the Women's Police Station in Indore registered a case in April 2026 against Puneet Bhatt and other family members—Pratima Nagar, Naveen Nagar, Udit Bhatt, Kumkum Bhatt, Sumit Bhatt, and Vineet Bhatt—under various sections of the law. Additionally, another case related to domestic violence is reportedly pending in court.

  Warning of agitation if no action is taken  

Dr. Indra Bhatt has stated that if the administration fails to take appropriate and impartial action in the matter, she—along with social organizations and supporters—will submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister and demand intervention.

For now, the complaint has been submitted to the administration, and further action in the matter is awaited.