We have given proof of being Shankaracharya, Yogis should also give proof of being Hindu, sharp attacks from Avimukteshwarananda:

News India Live, Digital Desk: The war of words between Jyotish Peeth’s Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has now reached a new and very aggressive turn. Recently, in response to the questions raised regarding the appointment of Shankaracharya and his authenticity, Swami Avimukteshwaranand has directly attacked the Chief Minister. He bluntly said that if the Chief Minister asks him for proof of being Shankaracharya, then he should also make public the proof of his being a ‘Hindu’, otherwise he should remain silent.

Root of controversy: Why did Shankaracharya get angry?

In fact, for some time now, there has been a tussle between the ruling party and him regarding the title of Shankaracharya and the religious issues raised by him (like the theft of gold from Kedarnath or the method of consecration of Ram temple).

Questions on authenticity: When questions were raised by the Chief Minister’s Office or his supporters over the process of Shankaracharya’s appointment, Avimukteshwarananda described it as ‘an insult to the highest office of Sanatana Dharma’.

Avimukteshwarananda’s argument: He said, “Our consecration has taken place as per the rituals and scriptures, for which we have sufficient evidence. Those who are intoxicated with power and are demanding proof from the saints, should themselves tell what their devotion and deeds are towards the Hindu religion.”

Shankaracharya’s 3 sharpest attacks

Proof of being a Hindu: “If you want proof of the dignity of the post, then Chief Minister should tell on what basis he calls himself a Hindu protector? Does one become a contractor of Hindu religion just by wearing saffron clothes?”

Ignoring the scriptures: “The people in power do not follow the limits of the scriptures. They want to subjugate the saints, which will never happen.”

Politics of fear: Shankaracharya alleged that whoever does not match his (government’s) tune, his credibility starts being questioned.

Shankaracharya’s place in Sanatan Dharma (Hierarchy)

Shankaracharya reminded that the importance of the four Peethas established by Adi Shankaracharya is above any political post.

Amar Ujala Special: What will be the impact of this controversy?

Political experts believe that this dispute is no longer merely religious. Two factions of saints are seen forming in Uttar Pradesh, one which is with the Yogi government and the other which is criticizing the policies of the government under the leadership of Avimukteshwaranand. In the coming time, this controversy can become a big issue in the Kumbh Mela (2025-26) and other religious events.

BJP and government’s stance

At present, the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Chief Minister’s Office have not made any official comment on this direct attack, but the debate between Yogi supporters and saints has intensified on social media. Some people are calling it an ‘opposition sponsored’ statement, while some are calling it a fight for ‘freedom of religion’.