An FIR has been registered under the POCSO Act against Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati in Prayagraj on allegations of sexual harassment of minor boys. The case was filed at Jhusi Police Station, and he has denied the allegations, stating that he will cooperate with the investigation and has full faith in the judiciary.
FIR Registered Under POCSO Act
An FIR was lodged at Jhusi Police Station in Prayagraj under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act against Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati. He has been accused of sexually harassing minor boys. The registration of the case has drawn attention in religious and social circles.
Statement From Varanasi Math
Speaking to the media at his math in Varanasi, Avimukteshwaranand said he has complete faith in the judiciary and is prepared to cooperate with the investigation. He stated that the police are conducting the inquiry as per procedure and that officials visiting for investigation will be welcomed.
Claim of Cooperation With Investigation
He said he is not evading the investigation and will not oppose any action taken as part of the inquiry. He added that there is no need for arrest as he is cooperating with the process. According to him, the truth will come out and justice will be delivered.
Allegations Termed False
The Shankaracharya rejected the allegations, calling the case false. He claimed that there is a deliberate attempt to implicate him. He said that the public is observing the developments and that the truth will emerge in due course.
He referred to the judicial system, stating that there are three levels of courts in the country — the lower court, the High Court, and the Supreme Court — and said that the Supreme Court is akin to God and that final justice will come from there.
Reference to CCTV Cameras
Avimukteshwaranand also referred to Prayagraj, stating that CCTV cameras are installed throughout the city. He said that if any incident had occurred, evidence would have emerged through such surveillance.
He further stated that the boys mentioned in the allegations had never studied at the gurukul. He said that if the concerned students had not studied there, the allegations could not be correct.
Faith in Legal Process
In his statement, the Shankaracharya reiterated that he has complete faith in the law and the judiciary. He said he respects police action and will fully cooperate with the investigation. He indicated that he does not seek any confrontation and will present his position within the framework of the law. He said that truth will prevail and that he will receive justice.
