Prayagraj Court Takes Action on Alleged Attack During Krishna Janmabhoomi Procession
In a significant development related to the ongoing Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute, a petition has been filed in Prayagraj, leading to judicial intervention. The case centers on an alleged attack during a religious procession, with the court now moving forward with criminal proceedings.
Petition Details and Allegations
The petition was submitted by Ashutosh Maharaj, who is one of the petitioners involved in the broader Krishna Janmabhoomi case. He has accused seer Avimukteshwaranand and his disciples of orchestrating an attack on a Krishna Janmabhoomi Mukti Yatra procession. This incident reportedly occurred at the Magh Mela in Prayagraj on January 18. The allegations suggest that the procession, which was part of a movement advocating for the liberation of the Krishna Janmabhoomi site, was targeted in a violent manner, raising concerns about religious tensions and public safety during the festival.
Judicial Response and Court Orders
Acting on this petition, Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Sandeep Parcha of Prayagraj has taken decisive steps. The court has directed that the petition be registered as a criminal complaint, formalizing the legal process against the accused parties. Additionally, notices have been issued to the opposite parties, including Avimukteshwaranand and his disciples, requiring them to respond to the allegations. The magistrate has also ordered the recording of the petitioner's statement to gather further evidence and details about the incident.
To ensure progress in the case, the court has scheduled the next hearing for March 17. This date will allow for the submission of responses from the accused and potentially the presentation of additional evidence, moving the legal proceedings forward in a structured manner.
Background and Previous Legal Actions
This is not the first time Ashutosh Maharaj has approached the courts regarding issues involving Avimukteshwaranand. Earlier, he had filed another petition seeking the lodging of a First Information Report (FIR) against the seer. That petition alleged sexual exploitation of minor boys in Avimukteshwaranand's camp at the Magh Mela. The court heard arguments from both sides on February 13 and has reserved its order in that matter, indicating a pending decision that could have implications for the current case.
The connection between these two petitions highlights a pattern of legal disputes involving the same individuals, with the Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute serving as a backdrop. The Magh Mela, a major religious gathering in Prayagraj, has become a focal point for these controversies, underscoring the intersection of faith, law, and social issues in the region.
Implications and Next Steps
The registration of this petition as a criminal complaint marks a critical step in addressing the alleged attack, potentially leading to formal charges if evidence supports the claims. As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by stakeholders in the Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute and the wider community, given its implications for religious freedom and legal accountability.
With the next hearing set for March 17, all parties are expected to prepare their arguments and evidence. The outcome could influence not only this specific incident but also the broader legal landscape surrounding the Krishna Janmabhoomi issue, making it a case of significant public and judicial interest.
