Prayagraj, January 19: The Mauni Amavasya bathing festival passed off smoothly. Regarding this, Prayagraj Divisional Commissioner Saumya Agarwal held a press conference on Monday in the Mela Authority auditorium located at Tripal C.
Regarding Swami Avimukteshwaranand Maharaj’s controversy, she clarified that vehicles were not permitted on Sangam Nose. Swami Avimukteshwaranand, along with his disciples and devotees, broke through the barricades at Pipa Pul No. 2 and reached Sangam Nose in his vehicle at a time when there was a lot of pressure of devotees. He was not stopped from bathing, but was requested to leave his vehicle and go for a bath on foot with his disciples.
She further stated that all the police officers posted at Sangam Nose persisted for about three hours, and the return route was kept clear for his return journey. Police personnel performed this significant task, but when the Maharaja refused to bathe, his vehicle was towed away.
Magh Mela Officer Rishiraj stated that in compliance with the Supreme Court’s October 18, 2022, order, no VIP facilities were provided to anyone on the important bathing festival.
He also stated that Swami Avimukteshwaranand was not allotted a camp in the name of Shankaracharya Charya. He is not recognized as the Shankaracharya of the Jyotish Peeth. The matter is pending in court, and he has been allotted land in the name of Badrikashram. Therefore, how could we provide him with VIP facilities? We respect all the saints who come to the fair. However, no saint was allowed to break tradition and bathe on Mauni Amavasya. Swamiji was adamant, and we were concerned for the lives of millions of devotees. A mistake would have resulted in a stampede. We humbly request all saints to bathe with respect and become part of the virtue.
Meanwhile, District Magistrate Manish Kumar Verma and Prayagraj Police Commissioner Jogendra Kumar denied the allegation of preventing Swami Avimukteshwaranand Maharaj from bathing.
They stated that Maharaj was repeatedly requested and urged to bathe on foot. However, if any incident occurred with his disciples during this time, an investigation will be conducted. Legal action will be taken based on evidence and proof. They stated that the entire incident is being probed and all legal action will be taken in this regard.