Prayagraj: Ashutosh Maharaj Files Petition to Restrain Seer's Yatra in Pocso Case
In a significant legal development, Ashutosh Maharaj has filed a new petition before the Pocso court in Prayagraj, seeking a restraint order on Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati's 'Gau Pratishtha Dharmyudh Yatra' in Sitapur. This move comes after Maharaj had earlier lodged an FIR against the seer and his disciple for allegedly sexually exploiting two minor boys at his ashram.
Background of the Case and Legal Arguments
Ashutosh Maharaj, who is also a plaintiff in the Krishna Janmabhoomi case of Mathura, argued in his petition that Avimukteshwaranand should be barred from reaching Sitapur. He emphasized that the Batuks (child students) who accused the seer hail from the neighbouring Hardoi district and are reportedly "terrified" by news of his planned visit. The court, after hearing the plea, has reserved its order, indicating a pending decision on the matter.
Previous Legal Proceedings and High Court Intervention
This is not the first legal action in this case. Maharaj had initially filed a case against Avimukteshwaranand in the same Pocso court. Following this, on February 21, the court directed the Jhunsi police to lodge an FIR based on the allegations. However, Avimukteshwaranand challenged this order by moving the Allahabad High Court. On February 27, the high court stayed his arrest and granted him interim protection from coercive action, providing a temporary shield against legal proceedings.
Details of the Yatra and Its Schedule
Despite the ongoing legal battles, Avimukteshwaranand began his 'Gau Pratishtha Dharmyudh Yatra' from Kashi on March 7. The yatra is centered on the demand to declare the cow as the "mother of the nation". It is scheduled to pass through several districts, including Rae Bareli and Unnao, before reaching Sitapur. The culmination of the yatra is planned in Lucknow on March 11, adding a layer of urgency to Maharaj's petition for restraint.
Implications and Next Steps
The case highlights the intersection of legal, social, and religious issues in India. With the court reserving its order, all eyes are on the upcoming decision, which could impact the yatra's progression and the broader discourse on child protection laws. The outcome may set a precedent for how such sensitive cases are handled in the future, balancing religious freedoms with legal safeguards for minors.
