Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati has strongly responded to a legal notice from the Magh Mela administration questioning his use of the title ‘Shankaracharya’. He warned of legal action for contempt of court and defamation if the notice is not withdrawn. The notice raised concerns about his claim to the title traditionally reserved for top spiritual leaders of Sanatana Dharma.
In an eight-page reply to the Mela authorities, Swami Avimukteshwaranand criticized the notice as insulting. He accused it of attempting to interfere with the faith of Sanatana Dharma followers. The notice referred to a Supreme Court order stating that he is not recognized as the Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath.
The notice questioned the basis for his use of the title ‘Shankaracharya’ and demanded a response within 24 hours. It cited a case involving a dispute over the rightful Shankaracharya of Jyotir Math, known as Jyotish Peeth. The conflict has seen competing claims and legal battles at various judicial levels.
Responding through lawyer P.N. Mishra, Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s camp highlighted a Supreme Court order designating him as Shankaracharya. They accused the administration of contempt for issuing the notice after his coronation. Allegations were made against Swami Vasudevanand for obtaining an order through a false affidavit.
The controversy escalated during Mauni Amavasya when Swami Avimukteshwaranand and his followers were allegedly stopped by police from taking a holy dip. This led to a protest by the seer, demanding an apology from mela officials and police. The administration’s notice questioned his title usage pending a Supreme Court appeal, emphasizing no new consecrations until further court directions.
