High Court Grants Interim Relief to Shankaracharya Amid Sexual Assault Allegations
Background of the Case
Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, the head of Jyotirmath Peeth, has received significant interim relief from the Allahabad High Court concerning a sexual harassment case filed under the POCSO Act. This article provides detailed information and updates as of February 28, 2026.
When and Where Was the FIR Filed? The FIR was lodged at the Jhunsi police station in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) around February 21-22, 2026, following an order from the Special POCSO Court. The complainant, Ashutosh Pandey (also known as Ashutosh Brahmachari), is a former disciple of the Swami.
What Are the Allegations? The allegations involve sexual exploitation and harassment of minor disciples. Incidents reportedly occurred during the Kumbh/Magh Mela. Relevant sections include POCSO Act sections 3, 4(2), 6, 16, 17, 51, among others, along with section 351(3) of the Indian Penal Code. The accused include Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, his disciple Mukundanand Giri (Pratyachaitanya), and some unidentified individuals.
Response from the Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand has categorically denied the allegations, labeling them as false, fabricated, and part of a defamation conspiracy. He stated that this is an attempt to divert attention from issues akin to the 'Epstein files.' He has expressed his willingness to undergo a narco-analysis test to reveal the truth and has committed to fully cooperating with the investigation.
High Court Hearing and Ruling (February 27, 2026)
Petition: An anticipatory bail petition was filed on February 24, 2026, due to fears of arrest.
Hearing: Justice Jitendra Kumar Sinha conducted a hearing lasting over an hour on February 27.
- Defense (Lawyer P.N. Mishra and others): The allegations are baseless, there are contradictions in the police report, and no solid evidence exists.
- Prosecution and Complainant: The accused is influential, the charges are serious (involving minors), and there is a risk of tampering with the case.
Court Order: The court has reserved its final decision on the anticipatory bail application.
- Interim Relief: Until the final decision, the court has stayed the arrest of Swami Avimukteshwaranand and the co-accused, prohibiting any punitive or coercive action.
- Instructions: The Swami must cooperate with the investigation. The state government and the complainant have been directed to submit written responses by March 12.
- Next Hearing: Expected in the third week of March 2026 (post-Holi break).
Post-Relief Situation
Following the relief, supporters in the courtroom expressed their joy with applause.
In response, the Swami remarked, "The lifespan of lies is short; the truth eventually comes to light. The court found merit in our arguments."
Some supporters celebrated the moment akin to a 'Holi' festival.
The case has sparked discussions across religious, political, and social circles, with some opposition leaders labeling it a political conspiracy.
Conclusion
This relief is temporary and will depend on the final verdict. The investigation is ongoing, and the Swami must adhere to police and court directives. Any new updates could alter the current situation.