Earlier, this publication reported that civil war erupted among the Hindu Mandir’s Board of Trustees due to non-compliance with the approved bylaws. This publication has received the information below from one of the trustees whose membership, under the current bylaws, has been challenged by the other board members. The Board Members and the Executive Committees are aggressively enmeshed in the ongoing controversy. 

Although the first paragraph below mentions the “Board of Trustees,” this publication cannot independently verify the number of Board of Trustees approving and/or signing the message below. The Trustee who emailed the message mentioned that the “majority of the active trustees” approved the message below. However, as per one of the active longtime board members, there was no notice sent out for the meeting, and he is not aware if any meeting was held to approve the message below.

The informed sources have indicated that the ongoing leadership challenges and legitimacy over Mandir’s control may be heading to court with substantial legal costs. 

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the article below is submitted by one of the Board Members and are not an opinion of or endorsement by vegasdesi.com. The editor is pleased to provide vegasdesi.com with an open forum for the community members to engage in issues impacting the small but prosperous local Hindu community. 

An Update on Temple Administration: Addressing Concerns and Moving Forward

The Board of Trustees (BOT) recognize the ongoing discussions and concerns surrounding the management of our Hindu and Jain Temple of Las Vegas. Addressing these matters transparently and correcting any misinformation is crucial. In line with our commitment to transparency, the BOT aims to provide accurate information to our community. We are dedicated to swiftly resolving these issues to restore peace and harmony.

Why and when did it all start?

The election of the new executive committee took place on December 10, 2023, with the unanimous support of the Board of Trustees, including the chairman and vice-chairman. This process was conducted openly, and the results were promptly communicated with our community.

After the election, a concern was voiced by a member of the newly elected committee regarding the election process and adherence to our by-laws. Furthermore, few trustees were unhappy with the results of the election. According to our by-laws, these concerns required examination by the Board of Trustees and the temple’s legal advisors. However, rather than collectively discussing and determining a plan of action, some trustees opted to engage a private attorney and began issuing legal notices to others, alleging breaches of compliance, and removing duly inducted trustees almost two years ago.

What are non-compliances that private attorney of the trustees is talking about? 

There are two issues that private attorney of the trustees is contesting –

1. Three trustees who were inducted in February 2022 (where temple accepted $50,000 donations from each one of them, they served for about 8 quarters and some of them played a key role in the recent development of the temple) were not elected properly therefore their decisions and actions are null and void.

• The election of Executive Committee on December 10th, 2023, process per by-laws.

 Why does this situation pose a significant liability for the temple?

The issue raised by the private attorney, specifically Point #1, highlights a grave concern for the temple. Accepting significant donations from individuals, allowing them to serve in specific capacities, and later disputing the validity of those actions could be construed as fraudulent. This has necessitated legal advice to protect the temple from potential liabilities. Interestingly, the trustees who are now contesting the legitimacy of these actions are the same individuals who initially approved them.

What is the opinion of the temple counsels?

Our temple’s legal counsel and additional special counsel have reviewed various documents and confirmed the legitimacy of the elections and trustee inductions. Despite this, few trustees through their private attorney contesting their induction as trustees and the December 10th election.

There are multiple executive committees, which one is right?

It is important to note that the legitimate executive committee and Board of Trustees are listed on our official temple website – https://hindutemplelv.org/temple-administration/. Any other group claiming authority without being listed is not recognized officially by our temple and could potentially face legal liability for representing falsely non-profit organizations. They can be volunteers for the temple but cannot assume the roles and responsibilities as officers of the Temple.

Was the chairman elected in December 2023’s election resigned, and if so, why does he continue to serve?

Indeed, the chairman resigned in December 2023. According to our bylaws, a resignation requires approval from the majority of board members during a board meeting. Such a meeting did not take place, and in the interim, the chairman withdrew his resignation letter, choosing to continue serving the community.

 What is the path forward?

Efforts to resolve these issues are ongoing, with arbitration between the concerned parties expected to conclude shortly. In the meantime, our temple remains open to all, continuing its functions and services with the support of our dedicated volunteers.

Om Shanti!

Board of Trustees, Hindu Society of Nevada

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