Shankaracharya granted relief

The Allahabad High Court has granted interim relief to Jyotish Peeth Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati in a case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. On Friday, after an extended hearing, a single bench of Justice Jitendra Kumar Sinha reserved the final order on the Shankaracharya's anticipatory bail application while explicitly directing that he shall not be arrested in the interim. 

The case stems from allegations of sexual exploitation of minor boys at an ashram associated with the Shankaracharya. In response to the anticipatory bail plea, the Shankaracharya and his legal team presented arguments emphasizing that the case was fabricated and motivated to tarnish his reputation.  The High Court appeared to acknowledge these concerns, stressing the need for proper procedure in any alleged offense and directing that the minors be handed over to suitable custody if not already done. 

The Shankaracharya has consistently denied the allegations, labeling them a conspiracy and expressing willingness to cooperate with the investigation, including undergoing a narco analysis test if it helps establish the truth.  He has maintained that the minors have no connection to his ashram and that stories of exploitation were false, as evidenced by records showing the children attending school elsewhere. 

The development has provided temporary relief amid intense public and media scrutiny, with the Shankaracharya asserting that justice systems still function impartially and that faith in fair proceedings remains intact for those who present their case diligently. The matter continues to draw attention across political circles in Uttar Pradesh, with both sides presenting sharply contrasting narratives.