Two nabbed for blackmailing ISKCON temple authorities

Police said they recovered Rs three lakh cash, electronic goods, including a camera and a laptop, passport and CD from the duo.

They were arrested recently on a complaint lodged by the administrative officer of temple Kodandarama Das on April 17.

The duo had become friendly with Acharya Ratan Das of the temple and promised to secure hefty donations from big corporates. However, they asked for 20 per cent commission for each donation, the police said.

Since there was no provision in ISKCON to give such commission, it was refused.

Subsequently, last month the duo sent a parcel containing a DVD, some receipts and a letter saying that if money was not given they would present the DVD to the media "which will spoil the image of ISKCON".

He then took Rs three lakh from Kodandarama Das and started demanding more money by issuing threats through e-mail and sms, following which the complaint was lodged, the police said.