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Prayagraj: A day after ending his sit-in protest and departing the Magh Mela in Prayagraj, Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati continued to express dissatisfaction over the events that led to his withdrawal. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, he said the circumstances surrounding his exit reflected actions that, in his view, went against the principles of Sanatan Dharam. He had concluded his protest on Wednesday, stating that he was leaving the Mela grounds with deep disappointment after remaining there since January 18.

Protest Linked to Alleged Restrictions at Sangam

The Shankaracharya’s protest stemmed from allegations that he and his followers were stopped from performing a ritual bath at the Sangam during the Magh Mela. According to him, the situation escalated when his disciples attempted to proceed towards the Sangam Nose for the Mauni Amavasya snan. He alleged that security personnel intervened forcefully, preventing them from completing the religious ritual.

He maintained that the protest was not political in nature but was aimed at highlighting what he described as the mistreatment of devotees. The incident, he said, raised concerns about respect for long-established religious practices during one of Hinduism’s most significant congregations.

Sharp Words for Fellow Seers

In his remarks, Swami Avimukteshwaranand also addressed criticism from sections of the religious community who questioned his decision to leave the Mela. He accused some sadhus and seers of aligning themselves with the authorities rather than standing with followers of Sanatan Dharam.

He argued that those who failed to object to the alleged use of force against disciples had abandoned their moral responsibility. Using strong language, he said that anyone who remained unmoved by what he described as violence against monks, students, women ascetics, and elders could not be considered a true spiritual leader.

Allegations of Excessive Force

Reiterating earlier claims, the Shankaracharya said that his followers were subjected to physical force while attempting to reach the Sangam for the ritual bath. He questioned why no disciplinary action had been initiated against officials allegedly involved in the incident.

He further alleged that the absence of action reinforced perceptions that the authorities were indifferent to the concerns of certain communities. According to him, the incident and its aftermath suggested a lack of accountability and sensitivity towards religious adherents.

Missed Opportunity for Reconciliation

Swami Avimukteshwaranand said the situation could have been handled differently had an apology been offered at the appropriate time. He noted that seeking forgiveness is always possible, but stressed that the moment to do so had passed.

By the time any reconciliation was considered, he said, the Magh Mela was nearing its conclusion and his camp had already been dismantled. This, he added, made it difficult to rebuild trust or reverse the sequence of events that led to his departure.

Opposition to New UGC Regulations

Beyond the Magh Mela controversy, the Shankaracharya also voiced strong opposition to the recently introduced University Grants Commission regulations. He described the changes as a serious challenge to Sanatan Dharam, arguing that they undermine traditional social and educational structures.

He stated that the caste system, as understood in the traditional context, was designed to preserve livelihoods and social balance rather than create division. According to him, the new regulations disregard these historical practices and could weaken long-standing institutions.

Call for Withdrawal of Regulations

Demanding the rollback of the UGC regulations, Swami Avimukteshwaranand said such measures should be reconsidered immediately. He argued that laws affecting religious and cultural traditions should be framed with greater consultation and sensitivity.

He concluded by reiterating that his opposition was rooted in concern for preserving established customs and ensuring that future policies do not erode what he described as the foundational principles of Sanatan Dharam.