February 23, 2026 | Varanasi:
A team from the Uttar Pradesh Police arrived at the Vidya Math ashram in Varanasi on Monday in connection with a case registered against Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati. The development follows directions issued by a Special POCSO court in Prayagraj.
The court recently ordered the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against the seer and his associate, Mukundanand Giri, based on allegations related to the alleged exploitation of minor disciples. Authorities stated that further legal procedures will follow as per due process.
Court Directs FIR Under POCSO and BNS
The case originates from a complaint filed by Ashutosh Brahmachari Maharaj. In the complaint, it was alleged that two minors were subjected to inappropriate conduct at the ashram premises. Acting on the plea, the Special Court under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act directed local police to register an FIR after noting prima facie material placed before it.
The FIR reportedly includes provisions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita concerning sexual offences and criminal intimidation.
According to the complaint, the alleged incidents are said to have occurred between January 2025 and February 2026 during religious gatherings, including events associated with the 2025 Maha Kumbh and the 2026 Magh Mela in Prayagraj. The complainant claimed that the acts were carried out under the pretext of “Guru Seva.”
The matter remains under investigation, and officials have stated that no conclusions should be drawn until the probe is complete.
Seer Denies Allegations, Assures Cooperation
Speaking briefly to media persons as police officials reached the ashram, Swami Avimukteshwaranand denied the allegations. He described the charges as baseless and politically motivated.
“I will cooperate with the investigation. I have faith in the legal system, my conscience, and God,” he said.
Members of his legal team argued that the complainant has previously been involved in legal disputes and alleged that the timing of the complaint raises questions. However, these claims are yet to be independently verified.
Context: Recent Tensions With Administration
The legal developments come amid earlier disagreements between the seer and the state administration.
- Magh Mela Dispute: In January 2026, the seer held a protest after reportedly being prevented from taking a ritual dip at the Sangam during Mauni Amavasya.
- Title Issue: Authorities had also issued a notice questioning his use of the title “Shankaracharya,” citing an ongoing matter before the Supreme Court concerning his coronation at Jyotish Peeth.
These developments had already drawn attention within religious and political circles prior to the current case.
Mixed Reactions From Religious and Political Leaders
The situation has sparked varied responses across religious and political groups.
Some religious figures have called for a fair and transparent investigation, stating that due process must prevail. Others have expressed concern over what they describe as increasing friction between religious institutions and administrative authorities.
Opposition leaders from parties such as the Congress and the Samajwadi Party have previously criticized the state government over its handling of matters involving religious leaders, though they have not issued fresh statements regarding the current legal action at the time of writing.
What Happens Next?
Police officials are expected to present Swami Avimukteshwaranand before the appropriate court in Prayagraj for further proceedings, if required under the investigation process.
Authorities confirmed that digital materials submitted as evidence are being examined. The case remains under investigation, and officials have emphasized that findings will depend on the outcome of the probe.
