The political climate in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj has reached a boiling. Point due to the ongoing protest by Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati. The seer has leveled serious allegations against the state administration and. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, comparing the current governance to the Mughal era. Amidst this, his praise for Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya. Has added a new dimension to the state's political discourse.
Allegations of Mughal-style Governance
Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand didn't mince words while criticizing the administration's handling of religious activities. He termed the current regime as a "modern-day Mughal government with Hindu names. " He alleged that just as Mughals once restricted Hindus from performing rituals and taking holy dips, the current administration is harassing monks and students (Batuks), while he accused CM Yogi of acting with a feudal mindset, which he termed 'Thakuraiti,' leading to the disruption of religious ceremonies.
Yogi vs. Keshav Maurya: A Tale of Two Statements
The Shankaracharya highlighted a stark contrast between the statements of CM Yogi Adityanath and Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya. He noted that while the CM's approach seemed rigid, Keshav Maurya spoke with responsibility and focused on finding a solution, while according to the seer, the public is closely monitoring both leaders, and there is a growing appreciation for Maurya's empathetic stance. He emphasized that a Chief Minister should be someone who genuinely cares for every citizen.
Clarification on the 'New CM' Remark
Following his comments, rumors began circulating that the Shankaracharya was demanding a change in leadership. Clarifying his position, he stated, "I am not asking for the Chief Minister to be replaced. I am merely echoing the sentiments of the people, while " He explained that when asked about the two different approaches within the same government, he pointed out that the public prefers the sensitivity shown by Keshav Prasad Maurya. He reiterated that his primary concern is the welfare of the people and the respect for religious traditions.
The 1.25 Lakh Shivling Controversy
The core of the dispute lies in the halted consecration (Pran Pratishtha) of 1. 25 lakh Shivlings. These Shivlings were brought to the Magh Mela in Prayagraj for a grand display and ritual before being transported to the Shapat Laksheshwar Dham in Kawardha, Chhattisgarh. However, the administration's intervention stopped the process. The Shankaracharya expressed deep hurt, stating that preventing devotees from worshipping the Shivlings is an affront to their faith.
Political Implications in Uttar Pradesh
The protest in Prayagraj has become a focal point for political debate in Uttar Pradesh. With the Shankaracharya's direct attack on the CM's style of functioning and his simultaneous praise for the Deputy CM, the internal dynamics of the ruling party are once again under the scanner. As the standoff continues, the administration faces the tough task of. Balancing law and order with religious sentiments in the holy city.