Politics has intensified over the Swami Avimukteshwaranand controversy following alleged mistreatment during the Prayagraj Magh Mela. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav shared a post emphasizing forgiveness, stating that apologizing for even indirect wrongdoing reflects moral strength and aligns with India’s cultural values of compassion and humility. The issue has now drawn sharp political reactions from multiple parties. Congress leader Ajay Rai accused the Uttar Pradesh government of targeting Swami Avimukteshwaranand for raising his voice against cow slaughter. He alleged that a “syndicate” was behind the harassment of the Shankaracharya and called it an attack on Sanatan Dharma itself. Ajay Rai demanded an unconditional apology from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, claiming that young Brahmacharis were mistreated and their religious symbols disrespected. He also sought strict action, including dismissal, against officials involved. Meanwhile, former Union Minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti said that the Chief Minister has ordered an inquiry and assured action if any official is found guilty. BKU leader Rakesh Tikait also criticized the administration, saying that while crowd control was necessary, the manner in which saints were treated was unacceptable.

