UP Government vs Swami Avimukteshwaranand : UP Govt Questions Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s ‘Shankaracharya’ Claim

Prayagraj: In a significant escalation between the Uttar Pradesh government and religious leadership, the Prayagraj Mela Authority has issued a show-cause notice to Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, questioning his use of the title ‘Shankaracharya’ during the ongoing Magh Mela.

Objection Over Camp Signboard

According to officials, the notice was issued after the administration objected to a signboard displayed at Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s camp, where he has been described as the Shankaracharya of Jyotishpeeth. The Mela Authority stated that the matter related to the Jyotishpeeth Shankaracharya is currently sub-judice before the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court Case Cited

In the notice, the authority stated:

“The matter regarding the post of Shankaracharya is pending before the Hon’ble Supreme Court. Until a final order is passed, no individual can be coronated (Pattabhishek) as the Shankaracharya of Jyotishpeeth.”

The administration further claimed that publicly projecting oneself as Shankaracharya while the case remains unresolved could amount to defiance of the Supreme Court’s authority.

24-Hour Deadline to Respond

The Mela Authority has given Swami Avimukteshwaranand 24 hours to explain the basis on which the title ‘Shankaracharya’ is being used on official displays at the Magh Mela camp. Failure to provide a satisfactory response could invite further administrative action.

Growing Religious–Administrative Tension

The notice comes amid an ongoing debate over religious authority, traditional succession, and the role of the state in matters of faith. Earlier, Swami Avimukteshwaranand had publicly asserted that the appointment of a Shankaracharya is a matter of religious tradition and lies beyond the jurisdiction of the government or constitutional authorities.

Awaiting Response

As of now, Swami Avimukteshwaranand has not issued an official response to the notice. The development has drawn attention from religious circles and legal experts, as it touches upon the delicate balance between religious autonomy and judicial oversight.

The situation is being closely watched as the Magh Mela continues and the Supreme Court case remains pending.