Prayagraj Seer and Associates Face Pocso Charges for Alleged Minor Exploitation
In a shocking development from Prayagraj, Swami Avimukteshwaranand, along with his disciple Mukudanand Brahmachari and three unidentified individuals, have been formally booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act. The charges stem from allegations of sexual exploitation involving two minor boys at the seer's camp, with incidents reported over the past year, including during the recent Magh Mela and the upcoming 2025 Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.
Court Order Leads to FIR Registration
The case gained momentum when Pocso Judge Vinod Kumar Chaurasia issued a directive on Saturday, ordering the Jhunsi police station to lodge a First Information Report (FIR) against Avimukteshwaranand and the other accused. This order came in response to a complaint filed by Shankuri Peethadheshwar Ashutosh Maharaj, a notable plaintiff in the ongoing Krishna Janmabhoomi–Shahi Eidgah title dispute.
Ashutosh Maharaj alleged that during a 'maha yajna' organized at his camp as part of the Magh Mela, two minor boys approached him with serious accusations. They claimed that Swami Avimukteshwaranand had sexually exploited them. Despite approaching the Prayagraj police earlier to register an FIR, Ashutosh Maharaj stated that he received no response, prompting him to seek judicial intervention through the Pocso court.
Legal Charges and Police Action
Jhunsi Station House Officer Mahesh Mishra confirmed to sources that the FIR has been registered under multiple sections. These include section 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for criminal intimidation, as well as sections 5, 6, 3, 4(2), 16, and 17 of the Pocso Act, which cover various offenses related to sexual assault and exploitation of children.
In his complaint, Ashutosh Maharaj further detailed that Avimukteshwaranand, who publicly proclaims himself to be a Shankaracharya, allegedly sexually assaulted the boys at his gurukul. The exploitation was reportedly carried out under the guise of education (shiksha) and service (sewa), adding a layer of betrayal to the serious allegations.
Background and Implications
This case has sent ripples through the community, especially given the involvement of a religious figure during significant events like the Magh Mela and the anticipated 2025 Maha Kumbh. The allegations highlight concerns over child safety in religious settings and the effectiveness of law enforcement in responding to such sensitive complaints.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to delve deeper into the identities of the three unnamed individuals and gather evidence to support the claims. The Pocso Act, known for its stringent provisions against child sexual abuse, could lead to severe penalties if the accused are found guilty.
The incident underscores the importance of vigilance and prompt action in protecting minors from exploitation, particularly in environments where trust and authority are paramount. The legal proceedings will be closely watched as they progress through the courts in Prayagraj.
