In a surprising move on Republic Day, Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri, a 2019-batch Uttar Pradesh PCS officer, stepped down from his position. He cited concerns regarding the treatment of revered saints and alleged discrimination against upper castes under the new University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations.
Agnihotri’s resignation, submitted to the Uttar Pradesh Governor, was based on principles of “self-respect,” conscience, and societal accountability rather than personal or professional motives. He strongly condemned the incident at the Prayagraj Magh Mela, where followers of Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati were reportedly mistreated during a protest.
Questioning the administration’s stance on the matter, Agnihotri highlighted the disrespect shown towards Brahmins and saints, emphasizing that their hair is traditionally considered sacred and not to be touched. He expressed concerns about targeted harassment, discrimination, and the broader implications of the UGC’s new regulations.
