Prayagraj: Ashutosh Maharaj Attacked on Train Amid High-Profile Legal Battle
In a shocking incident, Ashutosh Maharaj, the individual who filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and his disciple for alleged sexual exploitation of minors, was attacked on the Rewa Express early Sunday. The attack occurred while he was traveling from Ghaziabad to Prayagraj for a court hearing related to the case.
Details of the Train Attack
According to a Government Railway Police (GRP) officer, Ashutosh Maharaj was in an AC first-class coach when the train approached Sirathu station. He went to the toilet, where an unidentified assailant allegedly attacked him with a sharp-edged weapon. Ashutosh managed to lock himself in the toilet, saving his life, but sustained injuries to his nose and left upper arm region.
He was promptly taken to Colvin Hospital in Prayagraj for medical treatment. Senior police officials are investigating the incident, with CCTV footage from the spot being examined to identify the attacker. SP (GRP) Prasant Verma stated that further legal action will be taken based on the investigation findings.
Background of the Case
Ashutosh Maharaj came into the spotlight in February after Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, his disciple Mukudanand Brahmachari, and three others were booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act. The allegations involve the sexual exploitation of two minor boys at a camp during the recent Magh Mela and the upcoming 2025 Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.
Following a complaint by Ashutosh, a Pocso court ordered Jhunsi police to lodge an FIR against the accused. However, the Allahabad High Court granted interim relief to Avimukteshwaranand by staying his arrest, providing protection from coercive action until further hearings.
Reactions and Denials
In response to the attack, Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati questioned the claim, calling it "fabricated." He stated, "We learned about it through the media. We believe in arguments and evidence... We are not weak enough to do something like this." The seer added that according to the railway coach attendant, Ashutosh was fine when he entered the bathroom but was found injured upon returning.
Ashutosh Maharaj is also known as a plaintiff in the Krishna Janmabhoomi–Shahi Eidgah title dispute, adding another layer to this complex legal and personal saga. The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover the motives behind the attack and ensure justice in both the Pocso case and this new incident.
