Magh Mela Controversy Escalates with Political and Legal Dimensions
The ongoing dispute at the Magh Mela in Prayagraj has intensified, drawing sharp political lines and legal warnings. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued a strong caution to followers of Sanatan Dharma, urging vigilance against what he described as demons conspiring to weaken the faith under the pretext of religion.
Yogi Adityanath's Warning on Sanatan Dharma
Speaking at a pran pratistha ceremony in Haryana, Adityanath emphasized the primacy of religion and nation for spiritual leaders. For a yogi, saint, or ascetic, there is nothing bigger than religion and the country, he stated, highlighting that personal property holds no value compared to these ideals. He warned of many such demons who might be plotting to undermine Sanatan Dharma, calling for heightened awareness and alertness among devotees.
Roots of the Controversy
The controversy centers on Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati of Jyotishpeeth Badrinath, who alleged that he and his followers were prevented from taking a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya on January 18. The district administration has denied these claims, but the seer and his supporters argue that the action was biased and retaliatory, stemming from his criticism of the Uttar Pradesh government and Adityanath.
Political Support for Avimukteshwaranand
In a significant political development, the Samajwadi Party and Congress have launched campaigns in support of Swami Avimukteshwaranand. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav has demanded an apology from authorities for alleged discrimination against saints, while Congress leader Ajay Rai organized a puja in Varanasi to express solidarity with the seer. This support adds a partisan layer to the religious and administrative dispute.
Legal Escalation and Notices
The conflict took a legal turn when the Magha Mela Authority issued a notice to Avimukteshwaranand, questioning his use of the Shankaracharya title based on a 2022 Supreme Court order and demanding an explanation within 24 hours. Additionally, the Authority warned of barring him from future melas in Prayagraj, citing an incident on January 18 where he allegedly broke barriers on the Triveni Pontoon Bridge and traveled with a crowd, risking stampede conditions during crowded bathing times.
Seer's Legal Response
In a robust reply, Avimukteshwaranand's lawyers, led by Dr P N Mishra, contested the Authority's actions. They clarified that he was carried in a palki by people, not a chariot, and asserted that questioning his title is beyond the jurisdiction of an administrative officer. The response threatened legal action, including civil, criminal, and constitutional measures, if arbitrary steps were taken, labeling the notice as an attempt to disrupt religious activities and violate fundamental rights.
Implications and Ongoing Tensions
As the row escalates, it underscores broader tensions between religious authorities and state administration in Uttar Pradesh. With the Prayagraj Authority considering a ban and the seer's legal team preparing for court battles, the Magh Mela dispute continues to unfold, potentially setting precedents for future interactions between spiritual leaders and governmental bodies in the region.
