Prayagraj Attack Investigation Continues as GRP Teams Scour for Clues
In a developing case that has gripped attention, Government Railway Police (GRP) teams in Prayagraj are still working to identify the attacker of Ashutosh Maharaj, even after 30 hours since the incident occurred. The investigation is exploring multiple angles, including a provocative social media claim that has surfaced online.
Details of the Alleged Assault on Rewa Express
Ashutosh Maharaj, who had previously filed an FIR against Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and his disciple for allegedly sexually exploiting two minor boys at his ashram, reported being attacked by an unidentified individual. The assault took place on the Rewa Express near Sirathu railway station in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday.
According to Maharaj's account, he was traveling in an AC first-class coach from Ghaziabad to Prayagraj to attend a hearing related to the case at the Allahabad High Court. As the train approached Sirathu station, Maharaj went to the toilet, where he was allegedly attacked with a sharp-edged weapon. He claims to have saved his life by locking himself inside the toilet, preventing further harm.
Injuries and Broader Legal Context
Ashutosh Maharaj sustained injuries to his nose and left upper arm region during the attack. He was promptly taken to Colvin Hospital in Prayagraj for medical treatment. Notably, Maharaj is also a plaintiff in the high-profile Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah case, adding a layer of complexity to the incident.
In his statements, Maharaj has cast suspicion on Swami Avimukteshwaranand and others, alleging that a man from Mathura had announced a reward of Rs 21 lakh for cutting off his nose. This claim is now part of the broader investigation being conducted by authorities.
GRP's Ongoing Investigation Efforts
A senior GRP official provided insights into the investigative process, stating, "Police are compiling evidence and carrying out thorough investigations. Things will be cleared shortly as cops are connecting the series of incidents, including scanning CCTV footage and recording and verifying the statements of other passengers." This indicates a multi-faceted approach to uncovering the truth behind the attack.
Social Media Claim and Denials
Adding a twist to the case, a Facebook user identified as Swati Aghori has claimed responsibility for the attack. In the post, Aghori asserted that Ashutosh Maharaj survived only because he hid in a toilet. However, police are currently verifying the authenticity of this social media claim to determine its credibility and potential connection to the incident.
In response to these developments, Shailendra Yogiraj Sarkar, the national spokesman for Swami Avimukteshwaranand, addressed reporters. He stated that they have no knowledge of any individual named Swati Aghori and emphasized that they have nothing to do with her or the claims being made online.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are piecing together evidence from various sources, including passenger testimonies and surveillance footage, to bring clarity to this alarming event. The case continues to unfold, with updates expected as more information becomes available.
