A Special POCSO Court in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has instructed the registration of an FIR and an investigation into accusations of Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s involvement in sexually abusing children. The court’s decision followed a complaint by Jagadguru Rambhadracharya’s disciple, Ashutosh Brahmachari, who invoked Section 173(4) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) Act. Brahmachari presented two minors during the in-camera trial at the Special Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act Court.
The court, after reviewing a preliminary inquiry report by Prayagraj Police Commissioner Jogendra Kumar, directed the registration of an FIR against Swami Avimukteshwaranand, his disciple Mukundanand, and two others. This order also included a mandate for further investigation. Previously, the Supreme Court had declined a PIL alleging police excesses against Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s disciples during the Magh Mela in Prayagraj. The court suggested approaching the appropriate authorities for redressal in accordance with the law.
During the Mauni Amavasya bathing festival at the Magh Mela, a controversy arose when Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s traditional palanquin procession to the Sangam was halted by the Prayagraj administration due to safety concerns and a “no-vehicle zone” policy. This led to a scuffle between the Swami’s followers and the police, resulting in allegations of manhandling. In response, Swami Avimukteshwaranand staged a protest, refusing food and water until an apology was issued by the administration. The situation escalated further when the Magh Mela Authority questioned his use of the title ‘Shankaracharya’.
