Prayagraj POCSO court orders FIR against Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati over minor abuse allegations
According to the complainant, two minors were presented before the court, where their statements were recorded on camera
PTC Web Desk: A Special POCSO court in Prayagraj on Saturday directed the police to register an FIR against Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati following allegations of sexual abuse involving minor disciples.
The order was passed by Special Judge (POCSO Act) Vinod Kumar Chaurasia after reviewing a preliminary inquiry report submitted by the Prayagraj Police Commissioner. The court acted on a complaint filed by Ashutosh Brahmachari Maharaj, a disciple of Jagadguru Rambhadracharya.
According to the complainant, two minors were presented before the court, where their statements were recorded on camera. The proceedings were conducted in accordance with POCSO guidelines to protect the identities of the children.
Ashutosh Brahmachari told the court that the minors had approached him earlier and narrated incidents of alleged sexual abuse. He claimed that despite repeated attempts to seek police intervention, no action was taken, prompting him to move the court. He expressed satisfaction over the court’s decision, stating that he had turned to the judiciary after allegedly receiving no response from law enforcement authorities.
During the earlier hearing on February 13, Ashutosh Brahmachari urged the court to ensure a formal investigation and registration of an FIR. He also alleged that he had received threats to his life and requested protection. Counsel representing Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati argued that the accusations were unproven and sought additional time to prepare a legal response.
For the recording of the minors’ statements, the courtroom was cleared to ensure confidentiality. Only the presiding judge and lawyers from both sides remained present. The children’s testimonies were recorded in a closed-door session, following legal protocol under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Separately, Ashutosh Brahmachari announced plans to undertake a foot march, stating that he would continue to raise the issue publicly and seek accountability. He also issued public challenges to political leaders, asserting that he would present what he described as evidence during his campaign.