A controversy involving Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand has intensified at the Magh Mela in Prayagraj, where the seer has been holding a sit-in protest after being stopped from taking part in the Mauni Amavasya holy dip and being served a notice over the use of the ‘Shankaracharya’ title.
The protest, which has now entered several days, was launched after the Mela administration questioned his right to use the title, citing an ongoing Supreme Court case related to the Jyotirmath Shankaracharya seat. Authorities reportedly asked him not to use the designation until the legal dispute is resolved.
Swami Avimukteshwaranand has rejected the administration’s move, calling it an attack on religious traditions and the dignity of saints. He alleged that he was deliberately prevented from performing religious rituals and said such actions were hurting the sentiments of devotees.
The issue has triggered strong political and religious reactions. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath responded to the situation by stating that no individual is above the Constitution and that all decisions are being taken in accordance with the law. The state government has maintained that the action was administrative and aimed at avoiding legal complications during the religious gathering.
Differences have also emerged among religious leaders. Some saints have extended support to Avimukteshwaranand, while others have backed the administration’s stance, leading to visible divisions within the religious community. Yoga guru Baba Ramdev and other prominent figures have also weighed in, adding to the public debate.
Security has been tightened around the Shankaracharya’s camp following reports of tension and attempts by unidentified youths to enter the area forcibly. Police personnel have been deployed to prevent any untoward incident and to maintain order at the mela site.
Opposition parties, including the Congress, have criticised the Uttar Pradesh government’s handling of the matter and accused it of disrespecting religious institutions. They have demanded that the restrictions imposed on Avimukteshwaranand be withdrawn immediately.
The controversy has now grown beyond a religious dispute and taken on political overtones, raising questions about the relationship between spiritual leadership and administrative authority. With millions of pilgrims visiting the Magh Mela, the situation remains sensitive, and officials are closely monitoring developments.
As the protest continues, all eyes are on whether the state government and the Shankaracharya’s camp can reach a resolution, or whether the issue will escalate further in the coming days.
