A prominent spiritual leader, Swami Avimukteshwaranand, faces a critical juncture in Allahabad High Court today, pleading for anticipatory bail against arrest in a sexual exploitation case targeting minors. Justice Jitendra Kumar Sinha will scrutinize the application in single bench, listed at 142 on Court No. 72’s agenda.
Backed by lawyers Rajarshi Gupta, Sudhanshu Kumar, and Shri Prakash, the yachika ropes in the Uttar Pradesh administration, Ashutosh Pandey (complainant), the two young victims, legal aid committee, and child welfare authorities. Rejection could trigger immediate detention by police.
The Jhunsi FIR accuses the swami and disciple under BNS Section 351(3) plus six sexual crime sections, based on Ashutosh Brahmachari Maharaj’s testimony from Tulsi Kunj. It chronicles over a year’s torment for boys aged 14 and 17, including forced naked sleeping, threats, and repeated nighttime assaults.
The lid blew off at Magh Mela, where victims sought help, unveiling abuses during Mahakumbh 2025 and planned 2026 events—sold as sacred ‘guru seva’ with future perks. Recent violations allegedly happened in a stationary car and temporary camp.
This scandal reverberates through Prayagraj’s devout community, questioning safeguards in ashrams. The bail hearing pits the swami’s preemptive freedom bid against compelling evidence of minor endangerment. A favorable verdict might enable his defense strategy; otherwise, custody awaits.
Beyond the legal fray, it spotlights systemic vulnerabilities, urging enhanced vigilance and swift justice for the innocent. The outcome will undoubtedly shape discourse on spiritual authority and child rights in India.