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A complaint has been filed in the Special POCSO Court in Prayagraj against Swami Avimukteshwaranand. It accuses him of grave misconduct, including the alleged exploitation of minors and financial impropriety.
The court has sought responses from both sides and is scheduled to hear the matter later this month.
The allegations were brought forward by Ashutosh Brahmachari Maharaj, who recently came into the spotlight following a dispute during the Magh Mela.
On 8 February, he filed a formal complaint before the Special POCSO Court in Prayagraj. He also reportedly presented two minor alleged victims in support of his claims.
The complaint alleges that minor children were sexually exploited at a camp run under the guise of a traditional gurukul. It further accuses Swami Avimukteshwaranand of involvement in unlawful activities and of possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.
The complainant has demanded an impartial investigation into the matter.
Separate complaints were also submitted to the Prayagraj Police Commissioner. The complainants alleged that minors were made to perform various tasks at the camp. They claimed this may have violated child protection and labour laws.
The complaint additionally calls for a probe into alleged financial irregularities and the possible involvement of an individual identified as Mukundanand.
Following the filing of the complaint, the court issued a notice to Swami Avimukteshwaranand seeking his response.
On 10 February, his legal counsel submitted a reply, which included counter-allegations against the complainant.
Both parties are scheduled to appear before the court on 20 February.
After hearing arguments from both sides, the judge may either direct the registration of an FIR or dismiss the complaint.
Background to the Dispute
Ashutosh Brahmachari is a disciple of Shri Tulsi Peethadhishwar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya of Chitrakoot and is also a principal petitioner in the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi–Shahi Masjid Idgah case.
Tensions between Rambhadracharya and Swami Avimukteshwaranand reportedly escalated following disagreements during the Magh Mela.
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