Akhilesh Yadav Condemns BJP Government Over Shankaracharya Sangam Snan Controversy
In a sharp critique of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav launched a scathing attack on Thursday, accusing the government of committing "the biggest adharm" by obstructing Swami Avimukteshwaranand and other seers from performing a holy dip in the Sangam during Mauni Amavasya. The political leader made these remarks while addressing the media in Lucknow, following a tribute ceremony for late socialist leader Janeshwar Mishra.
Political Accusations of Insult to Sanatan Dharma
"BJP is treading the path of adharm. Stopping the Shankaracharya from taking a holy dip in Sangam was the biggest adharm there can be," asserted Akhilesh Yadav. He emphasized that this action not only humiliated the Shankaracharya but also insulted saints, seers, and Sanatan Dharma as a whole. The Samajwadi Party chief detailed how the Prayagraj Mela Authority, under alleged BJP pressure, prevented the spiritual leader and his disciples from proceeding to the Ganga Snan, with reports of seers being dragged by their choti (braid).
Questioning Governance and Bureaucratic Pressure
Akhilesh Yadav further criticized the administration, claiming that BJP is pressurising bureaucrats to issue notices to the Shankaracharya. He posed a rhetorical question about the state of governance under a chief minister who identifies as a yogi, asking, "Can anyone imagine that young seers and saints be stripped and beaten under a govt where the chief minister calls himself a yogi?" This comment highlighted his concerns over the treatment of religious figures and the inconsistency in governmental actions.
Tribute Event and Party Solidarity
The remarks were made after Akhilesh Yadav paid floral tributes to Janeshwar Mishra at a park named in his honor in Lucknow. The event saw participation from key party members, including national general secretary Shivpal Yadav, Leader of Opposition in UP assembly Mata Prasad Pandey, and other senior leaders. Tributes were also offered at the SP headquarters, demonstrating party unity and respect for Mishra's legacy.
Commentary on Sambhal Judge Transfer Issue
In addition to the religious controversy, Akhilesh Yadav addressed the judicial reshuffle in Sambhal, which has sparked protests among lawyers. Responding to media queries about the transfer of the chief judicial magistrate shortly after he ordered an FIR against 20 police officers for a shooting incident during the November 2024 violence near Shahi Jama Masjid, Akhilesh stated, "It was for the Supreme Court and the High Court to take note of the issue." He refrained from direct commentary, instead urging top judicial authorities to intervene and assess the situation.
Broader Implications and Political Context
This incident underscores ongoing tensions between political parties and religious authorities in Uttar Pradesh. Akhilesh Yadav's statements reflect a broader narrative of opposition criticism against the BJP's handling of religious and judicial matters. The deadlock between Swami Avimukteshwaranand and the Prayagraj Mela Authority continues to be a focal point in regional politics, with potential implications for upcoming electoral dynamics and public sentiment.
