New Delhi: Suraj Pal, also known as Bhole Baba or Narayan Hari Sakar among his followers, orchestrated the massive religious gathering in Hathras that tragically culminated in a stampede claiming the lives of 121 individuals, predominantly women and children. People familiar with the matter reveal that he commands a vast network of 24 ashrams, possesses a fleet of luxury vehicles, and holds assets estimated to be worth at least ₹100 crore.Bhole Baba not named in initial complaint Bhole Baba, 65, has been reported missing since the recent stampede incident, where he blamed anti-social elements in a statement released before his disappearance. Although the police have not named him in their initial complaint, six arrests were made on Thursday, including some of his key aides, as the investigation unfolds.Pals influence and trust operationsPals empire is overseen by the Shri Narayan Hari Sakar Charitable Trust, managing various operations closely associated with his name and activities, despite the unclear source of his wealth largely from impoverished followers.Luxury and security at eventsKnown for his grand entrances, Bhole Baba appears before devotees in a distinctive white three-piece suit and travels in a convoy of 15 to 30 vehicles. He is flanked by commandos on powerful motorcycles, while volunteers in light pink attire manage security, ensuring no unauthorized recordings or photographs.Alternative security measuresPreferring sevadars over police and administrative security, Bhole Babas events and services rely on thousands of volunteers selected through a formal process. They are provided with compensation, food, and accommodation within his ashrams, illustrating a distinct operational strategy.Expansive ashram networkPal resides in the Mainpuri Ashram sprawled across 21 bighas, featuring exclusive accommodations and extensive donor recognition. His trust oversees numerous ashrams, each strategically located and managed, reflecting a sprawling spiritual network.Despite the opulence and extensive operations of Bhole Babas trust, questions linger about the origins of his spiritual empire and the recent developments surrounding his disappearance. With ongoing police investigations and increasing scrutiny, the secretive nature of his organization may soon face new challenges.Colurful army of Bhole BabaThe Baba also has a personal Women Black Commando Brigade, whose members are deployed in the Womens enclaves at his events. Several videos have gone viral on social media purportedly showing women, dressed in black, among the devotees at the Babas events. Sources said that the Babas private army wore dresses of different colours. These brigades had named like Narayani Sena, Garud Yoddha and Hari Vahak.While members of one of Babas brigades are dressed in black, the members of the other brigade are seen in light pink shirts and trousers and carry lathis and whistles. The members of another brigade are dressed in brown. The private army of the Baba are deployed everywhere in the events and they controlled the entry and the exit polls.
