In Varanasi, Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwar Anand held a press conference criticizing the central and state governments over the protection of cows and Hindutva practices. He strongly condemned the ongoing cow killings, stating that being a Hindu is not about speeches or wearing saffron but about action, particularly protecting cows. He gave the government a 40-day ultimatum to prove their commitment to Hindu values by actively safeguarding cows, warning that failure to comply would label them as “fake Hindus” and hypocrites. Swami Anand highlighted the historical example of the Chola kings, emphasizing that Hinduism demands active protection of cows, not just symbolic gestures. He accused the Prayagraj administration of mistreating Shankaracharyas during the Magh Mela, claiming police action was taken under government orders to suppress voices defending cows. Swami Anand demanded that the government respect the authority and efforts of religious leaders who organize fairs like Magh Mela and Kumbh Mela, which attract millions. He stressed that true Hindutva begins with cow protection, and all higher religious duties are meaningless if this basic principle is ignored. The Shankaracharya’s statements have reignited debates on religious practices, government accountability, and cow protection in India, with authorities now under pressure to respond.


