Prayagraj, India – A special Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) court in Prayagraj has directed police to register a First Information Report (FIR) against Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, a prominent seer, and his disciple, Swami Mukundanand Giri, following allegations of sexual exploitation. The order, issued Saturday, marks a significant development in a case that has unfolded against a backdrop of ongoing controversy surrounding the religious leader.
The court, presided over by ADJ (POCSO Act) Vinod Kumar Chaurasia, instructed police to register the FIR at the Jhunsi police station. The directive came in response to an application filed under Section 173(4) by Shakumbhari Peethadhishwar Ashutosh Brahmachari Maharaj, who sought strict action in the matter, according to the news agency ANI.
Reacting to the court’s decision, Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati stated, “Yes, This proves appropriate. Only when a case is registered will the subsequent process of investigation and recording of testimony be completed. Only then will the truth of the false case filed against us come before everyone, and those responsible for doing this can be punished. It is necessary.” He urged the court to expedite proceedings, stating, “We would only say that the court should proceed with this at a faster pace without taking too much time, as many people are watching this matter. Testimony should be recorded and a decision taken as soon as possible. What is wrong will remain wrong, and the false case that has been filed will ultimately be proven false.”
Recent Controversies Surrounding the Seer
This legal development follows a period of heightened scrutiny and public attention directed at Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati. Last month, the seer claimed he was prevented from participating in a ritual dip at the Sangam during the Magh Mela in Prayagraj. This led to an 11-day sit-in protest, during which he voiced his grievances. Speaking from Varanasi, he said, “When I sat there for 11 days, no official asked me to take a dip. Now it is too late. I will proceed to the Magh Mela next year and take a respectful bath.”
Beyond the incident at the Magh Mela, Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati has also publicly called on Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to halt beef exports from the state and officially declare the cow as ‘Rajya Mata’ (state mother), framing it as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to Hindu values.
The January 18th Incident at Sangam
The initial controversy stemmed from an incident on January 18th, when Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, while traveling in a palanquin towards the Sangam for Mauni Amavasya, was asked by officials to dismount and proceed on foot due to large crowds. Authorities alleged that supporters of the seer breached a barricade on a pontoon bridge, creating crowd management challenges.
Following this incident, the seer staged a protest outside the Shankaracharya camp, demanding an apology and a dignified escort for the ritual bath. The administration responded by issuing a notice questioning his claim to the title of Shankaracharya of Jyotish Peeth, referencing a civil appeal currently before the Supreme Court.
Administrative and Political Fallout
The dispute triggered a series of administrative and political reactions. Prashant Kumar Singh, a deputy commissioner in the Uttar Pradesh GST department, resigned citing moral reasons, and Alankar Agnihotri, a city magistrate in Bareilly, also stepped down, expressing concerns over the perceived disrespect towards the seer. The Congress party subsequently announced a campaign against the alleged insult, urging the state governor to take immediate action.
Varanasi: Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarananda reacting to the court’s order to register FIR against him &. his disciple Swami Mukundanand Giri in connection with allegations of sexual exploitation. pic.twitter.com/wJq9w9wJ9q
— PTI – News (@PTI_News) February 17, 2024
Next Steps in the Legal Process
With the court’s order now in place, the Jhunsi police station is expected to formally register the FIR and initiate a detailed investigation into the allegations of sexual exploitation. The investigation will likely involve gathering evidence, recording statements from witnesses, and questioning both Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and Swami Mukundanand Giri. The timeline for the completion of the investigation remains unclear, but the seer has publicly called for a swift resolution to the case.
The unfolding situation is being closely watched by religious leaders, political observers, and the public, as it raises questions about accountability and the intersection of religious authority and the law in India. Further updates will depend on the progress of the police investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings.
This represents a developing story.
If you have been affected by sexual assault, resources are available. You can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE or visit RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) for support and assistance.
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