The Magh Mela administration has issued a formal notice to Swami Avimukteshwaranand, seeking clarification on his claim of being the Shankaracharya of Jyotish Peeth. The notice, served during the ongoing Magh Mela, refers to a Supreme Court order that reportedly states that no religious leader has been formally enthroned as the Shankaracharya of Jyotish Peeth.
According to the administration, displaying the title “Shankaracharya” on camp signboards without an officially recognized pattabhishek (ceremonial enthronement) amounts to a violation of the apex court’s directions.
Administration Seeks Reply Within 24 Hours
In the notice, the Magh Mela authorities have directed Swami Avimukteshwaranand to submit a written explanation within 24 hours. The administration has emphasized that compliance with judicial orders is mandatory, regardless of religious stature or public influence.
Officials stated that the notice was issued to ensure adherence to legal norms during the religious congregation, which attracts lakhs of devotees from across the country.
Late-Night Attempt to Serve Notice Faces Resistance
According to official sources, revenue officials, including a kanungo, reached Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s camp late at night to serve the notice. However, supporters present at the site refused to accept it at that hour.
They reportedly told the officials to return in the morning, stating that no authorized office-bearer was available at the camp to formally receive the notice during the night.
The administration has maintained that the notice will be re-served following standard procedure.
Supreme Court Reference at the Center of the Dispute
The controversy hinges on a Supreme Court order cited by the administration, which, according to officials, clarifies that no individual has been legally recognized as the Shankaracharya of Jyotish Peeth through a valid pattabhishek.
By displaying the title publicly, the administration claims, the order is being disregarded. Officials insist that the issue is not religious in nature but concerns compliance with judicial directives.
Potential Impact on Magh Mela Proceedings
The development has added a new dimension to the Magh Mela, where Swami Avimukteshwaranand commands a significant following. Observers believe the administration’s action could trigger wider debate over religious titles, institutional authority, and legal recognition.
Authorities, however, have reiterated that maintaining law, order, and adherence to court rulings remains their top priority during the massive religious gathering.
Awaiting Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s Response
As of now, no official response has been issued by Swami Avimukteshwaranand or his representatives regarding the notice. The administration is expected to take further action based on the reply submitted within the stipulated time.
The situation continues to be closely monitored, as it carries legal, administrative, and religious implications amid one of the country’s largest spiritual congregations.
Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s Response
Swami Avimukteshwaranand has issued a sharp response to the notice sent by the Magh Mela administration, firmly rejecting the authority of any constitutional or administrative office to determine who holds the position of Shankaracharya.
Reacting to the controversy, the seer stated, “Even the President of India does not have the authority to decide who is a Shankaracharya. Shankaracharyas are chosen by Shankaracharyas themselves.”
His statement has intensified the ongoing debate surrounding religious authority, institutional traditions, and administrative oversight.