The controversy began on 21 February, when an FIR was registered in Prayagraj following directions from a Special POCSO Court. Apart from Swami Avimukteshwaranand, his disciple Mukundanand Brahmachari and others have also been named in the complaint.
Avimukteshwaranand’s anticipatory bail plea in POCSO case to be heard tomorrow
Prayagraj: A significant development has emerged in the sexual assault case registered against Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati. The seer has moved an anticipatory bail application in the Allahabad High Court, fearing arrest in connection with a case filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The matter is scheduled for hearing tomorrow, and the court’s decision will determine whether he gets protection from arrest during the ongoing investigation.
What is the case about?
The controversy began on 21 February, when an FIR was registered in Prayagraj following directions from a Special POCSO Court. Apart from Swami Avimukteshwaranand, his disciple Mukundanand Brahmachari and others have also been named in the complaint.
The FIR alleges sexual abuse of two teenagers (aged 14 and 17) reportedly under the pretext of religious influence and guru-service. Police have recorded statements from both alleged victims and are gathering scientific evidence. One of the teenagers has undergone a medical examination, while the other’s medical process is pending due to ongoing board examinations.
Swami Denies Charges, Alleges Conspiracy
Swami Avimukteshwaranand has strongly denied all allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated. He has alleged that the administration and police were already preparing action against him even before the FIR was lodged. Questioning the delay, he asked why a case was not registered earlier if complaints had been made previously.
Citing a photograph, he also accused a local police officer of bias. While stating that he would respect the law if arrested, he has sought anticipatory bail to avoid immediate custody during the probe.
Political Angle: Congress Extends Support
The issue has taken a political turn, with the Indian National Congress expressing support for the seer. Party leaders have called for a fair and transparent investigation, stating that the matter concerns the dignity of the saint community.
A Congress delegation met the Shankaracharya in Varanasi and assured him of support. The party has also said it will write to the central government regarding the case.
Fresh Demand for Narco Test
Meanwhile, Dinesh Falahari Maharaj has publicly backed Avimukteshwaranand and demanded a narco-analysis test of Ashutosh Mandey. He has reportedly written to President Droupadi Murmu seeking intervention.
Falahari Maharaj alleged that he too has received threats and claimed that Ashutosh Brahmachari, whom he described as a history-sheeter, is part of a conspiracy to falsely implicate the Shankaracharya.
What Happens Next?
All eyes are now on the High Court hearing. If anticipatory bail is granted, Swami Avimukteshwaranand may receive interim protection from arrest during the investigation. If denied, police could proceed with further legal action under the POCSO Act.
The case continues to generate legal, religious, and political debate across Uttar Pradesh.
