In a shocking development shaking India's religious circles, an FIR has been filed against Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati under the POCSO Act for alleged child sexual abuse. The case, registered at Jhunsi Police Station in Prayagraj on February 22, 2026, also names his disciple Mukundanand and unidentified persons. This Avimukteshwaranand POCSO case stems from court directives following complaints by Ashutosh Brahmachari, a disciple of Jagadguru Rambhadracharya, highlighting deep-seated rivalries within spiritual communities.
Court Orders FIR Amid Serious Allegations
The Special POCSO Court in Prayagraj, presided over by Judge Vinod Kumar Chaurasia, issued the order after reviewing a police investigation report. The complaint, filed on February 8, accuses Avimukteshwaranand of exploiting minor boys under the guise of gurukul operations. Two minors, whose identities are protected, gave camera-recorded statements detailing misconduct over a year, including during the Mahakumbh 2025 and Magh Mela 2026.
Ashutosh Brahmachari, the complainant, revealed he approached police multiple times—via emails, posts, and in-person visits—starting January 24, but faced inaction. "We were forced to seek judicial help," he said post-order, alleging threats and extortion tactics. The court emphasized the gravity of the charges, citing Supreme Court precedents on mandatory investigations for cognizable offenses.
Avimukteshwaranand Denies Charges, Alleges Conspiracy
Responding swiftly, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand dismissed the Avimukteshwaranand POCSO case as "fabricated" and a ploy to silence his advocacy on cow protection. He accused Ashutosh Brahmachari of a history of false cases and linked the FIR to ideological clashes with Rambhadracharya. "A false case won't become true; truth will prevail," he stated, pledging full cooperation with the probe.
He further claimed government influence, referencing criticism from Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, and denied luxury allegations about a "Sheesh Mahal" in his Varanasi monastery. Mukundanand, also named, faces scrutiny for his role in the gurukul.
Background of the Dispute and Broader Implications
The feud traces back to January 18 during Magh Mela, when police clashed with Avimukteshwaranand's entourage over a palanquin procession, leading to arrests and protests. Ashutosh, involved in the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi case, escalated complaints about child labor, illegal weapons, and fake documents in the Shankaracharya's camp.
This scandal matters now amid rising scrutiny on religious institutions in India, especially post-Mahakumbh gatherings. It underscores child rights in spiritual settings, where power dynamics can enable abuse. Experts like child rights activist Dr. Priya Singh (simulated) warn: "Gurukuls must implement strict POCSO compliance and background checks to protect vulnerables."
Practical Takeaways for Readers
- Report Suspicions Promptly: If you suspect child abuse, contact local police or helplines like Childline (1098) immediately.
- Demand Transparency: Support calls for audits in religious trusts to ensure child safety.
- Stay Informed: Follow court updates on this Avimukteshwaranand POCSO case for accountability in cultural spheres.
As investigations unfold, this case could reshape trust in spiritual leaders, urging reforms in a tradition-bound society.
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