Shankaracharya–Mela Row Turns Flashpoint

Alleged police excesses spark outrage as religious divide and political battle intensify in Prayagraj

January 22, 2026: The standoff between Jyotirmath Peeth Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand and the Prayagraj Mela administration has escalated into a major religious and political controversy. While the saint community remains divided over the Shankaracharya’s protest, anger has grown over allegations that his disciples were mistreated by police, including claims of physical abuse and being forcibly dragged. The absence of any visible disciplinary action even after five days has further fuelled resentment among saints and devotees.

The controversy has deepened with sharp reactions from prominent religious leaders. Kalki Peethadheeshwar Acharya Pramod Krishnam criticised the language allegedly used by the Shankaracharya against Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, urging restraint and dialogue. On the other hand, Mahamandaleshwar Computer Baba accused the administration of deliberately targeting saints and questioned the government’s silence over the alleged police excesses, adding to tensions within religious circles.

The issue has now taken a strong political turn, with opposition parties such as the Samajwadi Party and Congress openly backing the Shankaracharya and accusing the Yogi government of insulting Sanatan Dharma. Posters supporting the Shankaracharya have appeared in Lucknow, while the RSS has defended the state government, claiming that certain individuals habitually oppose administrative systems. As emotions continue to run high, the dispute has firmly positioned itself at the crossroads of faith, authority, and politics.