Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh:
Jyotish Peeth Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand has adopted a confrontational stance at the Prayagraj Magh Mela, refusing to enter his camp until the administration apologizes and allows him a dignified holy dip at the Sangam. His protest continues despite two notices issued by the Magh Mela administration and threats of cancellation of land and facilities allotted to his camp.
Speaking to the media, Swami Avimukteshwaranand said, “We are not people who survive on handouts. If the administration wants, it can cancel the land and facilities allotted to us. It makes no difference to us.”
He made it clear that unless the administration formally apologizes and ensures a respectful Sangam bath, he will not enter the camp. “If we are not allowed this year, we will return next year. But we will sit outside the camp, just as we are doing now, where the police left us on Mauni Amavasya,” he said.
Pain and Protest Over Administrative Action
The Shankaracharya expressed deep anguish over the way the situation has unfolded. Reacting to a statement by Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, he said Maurya appeared to understand that the administration had made a mistake.
“Anyone who feels responsibility understands when the administration is wrong. At least Keshav Prasad Maurya has that sense of responsibility. Such a person deserves to be the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh,” he remarked.
Two Notices Issued, Both Answered
Swami Avimukteshwaranand confirmed that the Magh Mela administration has issued two notices, both of which have been formally replied to.
The first notice questioned his right to use the title “Shankaracharya,” citing that the matter is pending in the Supreme Court. The second notice threatened to permanently ban him from the Magh Mela and revoke the land and facilities allotted to him.
“We provided documentary proof in response to the first notice. As for the second, we told them clearly: you are free to cancel the allotment. We are not dependent on your favors. But you must explain why the land was given in the first place and why it is being taken back now,” he said.
Strong Reaction to ‘Kalanemi’ Remark
The controversy intensified after Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, without naming anyone, warned against “Kalanemi-like forces” allegedly weakening Sanatan Dharma under the guise of religion.
Responding sharply, Swami Avimukteshwaranand said, “It should be asked of Yogi Adityanath himself who Kalanemi really is.”
He explained that Kalanemi was a demon who disguised himself as a saint while committing violent and immoral acts. “In Yogi’s rule, cow slaughter is happening. BJP MLA Nand Kishore Gurjar has said in the Assembly that 50,000 cows are being slaughtered daily in Uttar Pradesh. Large quantities of beef have been seized in Noida. Beef from UP is found in other states and even exported. If this is not demonic behavior, then what is? Wearing the robe of a saint while allowing this — who is Kalanemi?” he questioned.
Health Deterioration Amid Protest
On Friday morning, the Shankaracharya’s health deteriorated due to prolonged exposure to cold weather. He spent several hours resting inside a van parked outside the camp.
Explaining his condition, he said, “I am not used to staying outdoors under heavy dew in extreme cold. I developed a fever, but I have taken medicine and am feeling better now.”
‘Elephants and Bulldozers Are Allowed, But Not Our Palanquin?’
Addressing questions about crowd control, Swami Avimukteshwaranand criticized the administration’s logic.
“People can roam the Magh Mela with elephants, bulldozers, and luxury vehicles, but a palanquin carried by four people is considered a threat of stampede?” he asked.
He reiterated that he will continue sitting outside the camp until granted a respectful holy dip. “We gave our word to the Peshwas that we would come to the Magh Mela, and we will keep coming. Camp entry will happen only after a dignified Ganga bath — this year or next.”
Timeline of Key Events
- January 18, 2026:
On Mauni Amavasya, Swami Avimukteshwaranand and his followers attempted to reach the Sangam in a palanquin for the holy dip. Police stopped them citing crowd management concerns. Allegations of police rough handling followed. The Shankaracharya returned without bathing and began a sit-in outside the camp. - January 19, 2026:
The Magh Mela administration issued the first notice questioning his use of the title “Shankaracharya.” - January 20, 2026:
Congress workers staged a protest outside the Prayagraj Collectorate, demanding a high-level inquiry into alleged police misconduct. - January 22, 2026:
The second notice was issued, proposing cancellation of land allotment and banning him from the Mela.
On the same day, CM Yogi Adityanath made the “Kalanemi” remark. - January 23, 2026:
Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s health deteriorated. He strongly rebutted the CM’s statement and skipped the Basant Panchami holy dip. His protest entered the seventh day.
Political Support and Security Measures
Amid the ongoing dispute, political support has grown. AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh met Swami Avimukteshwaranand at the Mela on Basant Panchami, sought his blessings, and assured that the issue would be raised in Parliament when the session begins on January 28.
Security around the Shankaracharya’s camp has been tightened. According to his national media in-charge Shailendra Yogiraj Sarkar, ten CCTV cameras have been installed following reports of suspicious activity near the camp at night.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as the standoff at the Prayagraj Magh Mela shows no signs of easing.