Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: The sexual abuse case against Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati has now reached the Allahabad High Court. On Tuesday, the Shankaracharya filed an anticipatory bail petition seeking protection from arrest in connection with an FIR registered at Jhunsi police station, Prayagraj. A hearing on the matter is expected soon, while authorities may question the religious leader as part of the ongoing investigation.
Allegations
The FIR alleges that during the Magh Mela, minors at Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s camp were sexually abused. The lower court had ordered the registration of the FIR following a petition by Shakumbhri Peethadhishwar Ashutosh Brahmachari Maharaj.
Speaking to journalists, Swami Avimukteshwaranand claimed, “If I am arrested, it would be the Chief Minister’s wish. I will fully cooperate with the police investigation. The allegations against me are false. There is no misconduct in my character.”
His lawyer, Srinath Tripathi, stated, “The FIR and the court order do not mention any evidence. We are prepared to pursue legal remedies in the lower court, High Court, and Supreme Court. Arrest or no arrest is a matter for police discretion, but any arrest would be extremely risky — like playing with fire.”
Legal Proceedings and Police Action
Following directives from the ADJ of the Rape and POCSO Special Court, FIRs were registered at Jhunsi police station against Swami Avimukteshwaranand and his disciple, Mukundanand Brahmachari, under Section 351(2) of the IPC and relevant provisions of the POCSO Act.
Police have recorded written and video statements of the minor disciples in Hardoi, which corroborate the allegations mentioned in the FIR. After completing the recordings, the police team returned to Prayagraj for further investigation.
Authorities have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and all legal processes will be strictly followed to ensure justice.
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