The Magh Mela Shankaracharya controversy has intensified into a major religious and political flashpoint in Uttar Pradesh. BJP leader Uma Bharti has strongly criticized the Magh Mela administration for demanding proof of identity from Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand, calling it an overreach that crosses all limits of decency. Her support has added fuel to the 10-day standoff, which began when the seer was stopped from taking a ceremonial palanquin bath on January 18.
Uma Bharti, known for her outspoken style, said the officials had insulted a revered spiritual figure and questioned how bureaucrats could challenge the Shankaracharya tradition. She clarified she was not opposing Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath but highlighting the mishandling. “Yogi opponents should not be happy; I am not against him,” she stressed, emphasizing respect for Sanatan Dharma leaders.
Adding to the pressure on the government, Dinesh Phalahari Baba, petitioner in the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi case, sent a blood-written letter to CM Yogi Adityanath. He demanded full arrangements for Avimukteshwaranand to take a respectful dip in the Ganga and an apology from officials. The letter underscores the deep hurt felt among devotees over the incident.
Escalating Standoff and Officer’s Dramatic Exit
The dispute escalated after Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri resigned on Republic Day, alleging he was pressured and unwilling to be part of an “oppressive government.” Avimukteshwaranand claimed Agnihotri called him personally, saying he could not continue in a system that disrespected his guru. The government rejected the resignation, suspended Agnihotri, and ordered an inquiry.
Avimukteshwaranand described the struggle as one between “fake and real Hindus.” He said barricades still prevent his ceremonial bath and accused officials of acting on higher instructions. “Sooner or later, they will have to answer,” he warned. He also praised Agnihotri’s stand and offered him a bigger role in the religious sphere.
Counter Voices and Security Tensions
On the opposite side, Paramhans Maharaj of Ayodhya Cantonment Dham accused Avimukteshwaranand and associate Satua Baba of defaming the Magh Mela. He demanded a permanent ban on their entry and invoked the National Security Act (NSA) against the Shankaracharya.
Support for Avimukteshwaranand continues to grow. Former Gujarat CM Shankar Singh Baghela visited the site, warning that 100 crore people stand with the seer and questioning the government’s commitment to cow protection amid alleged donations from cow-slaughter-linked sources.
Latest Developments on Ground
Tensions flared with a scuffle outside Avimukteshwaranand’s camp involving shopkeepers. Security was tightened outside Agnihotri’s residence after his suspension notice and vehicle seizure. Protests, including by Savarna community members, echoed outside the Collectorate.
Other saints joined Computer Baba in Dhuni Sadhana in solidarity. Avimukteshwaranand also embarked on the Gau Prerna Pratishtha Yatra, drawing large crowds for blessings.
The Magh Mela Shankaracharya controversy highlights the delicate balance between administrative protocols and religious sentiments during one of Hinduism’s biggest gatherings. With political heavyweights weighing in and public anger rising, the state government faces mounting calls for resolution. As the fair continues, all eyes are on whether dialogue or further escalation will prevail.
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