The ADJ Rape and POCSO Special Court in Prayagraj has issued a significant order to register a First Information Report (FIR) against Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati of Jyotish Peeth and his disciple, Swami Mukundanand Giri. The order follows allegations of sexual harassment involving minors. Judge Vinod Kumar Chaurasia delivered the decision after reviewing the application and evidence presented before the court. In response, the Shankaracharya stated that he maintains full faith in the judiciary and believes the truth will emerge through a formal investigation.
Details of the POCSO Court Order
The legal proceedings took place in the special POCSO court of Prayagraj, where Judge Vinod Kumar Chaurasia heard the matter on February 13. During the hearing, the court recorded the statements of two minors who leveled the allegations of sexual misconduct. These statements were recorded via videography to ensure the integrity of the evidence. Also, the court took cognizance of the police report submitted regarding the matter. After reserving the judgment, the court pronounced its decision on Saturday evening around 4:30 PM, directing the police to register the FIR immediately under relevant sections.
Background of the Application and Police Inaction
The case originated from an application filed by Ashutosh Brahmachari Maharaj, the Chairman of Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Mukti Nirman Trust and Shakumbhari Peethadhiswar. According to the petitioner, he had initially approached the Jhusi police station to file a complaint against Swami Avimukteshwaranand and his disciple, while however, after the police failed to register the case, he moved the district court on January 28 under Section 173 (4) of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The petition sought strict legal action, alleging that minors had been subjected to sexual exploitation.
Response from Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand
Following the court's directive, Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati described the order as a necessary step for justice. He remarked that a formal investigation is essential to uncover the facts and that the truth can't be established without a registered case. The Shankaracharya asserted that the allegations are fabricated and expressed his desire for the court to expedite the proceedings, while he maintained that he's prepared to cooperate with the investigative agencies, expressing confidence that the legal process will eventually prove the case to be baseless.
Allegations Against the Petitioner
The Shankaracharya raised serious concerns regarding the credibility of the complainant, Ashutosh Brahmachari. He labeled the petitioner a 'history-sheeter' and alleged that the individual has a history of filing false cases for the purpose of extortion. According to the Shankaracharya, the complainant frequently changes affiliations with various religious figures to gain use, while he suggested that the current allegations are part of a larger conspiracy aimed at tarnishing his reputation and the sanctity of the Sanatan tradition.
Context of the Dispute and Cow Protection Advocacy
Swami Avimukteshwaranand linked the legal challenge to his ongoing advocacy for cow protection (Gau Raksha), while he stated that there are concerted efforts to silence his voice regarding the welfare of 'Gau Mata' and that this case is one such attempt. He also alluded to external influences behind the allegations, pointing towards other religious circles. As the court order has been issued, the local police are expected to proceed with the registration of the FIR and initiate a formal probe into the allegations of sexual harassment.