FIR Ordered Against Shankaracharya

Special POCSO Court directs police action

February 22, 2026: A Special POCSO Court has directed police to register an FIR against Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati over allegations related to the sexual exploitation of a minor. The order, issued under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, has sparked strong reactions in religious and legal circles due to the senior spiritual position held by the accused.

Following the court’s directive, Swami Avimukteshwaranand strongly denied the charges, describing the case as “fabricated” and politically motivated. He alleged that the complainant has a criminal background and claimed the accusations were an attempt to defame him. The Shankaracharya said he has full faith in the judiciary and is confident that the truth will emerge through due process.

With the court mandating registration of the FIR, legal proceedings are set to move forward. Authorities have not yet disclosed detailed information about the complaint, but the case has drawn widespread public attention as investigations begin.