New Delhi, Feb 16 (NationPress) The Supreme Court on Monday chose not to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that claimed police misconduct against the followers of Swami Avimukteshwaranand during the Magh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

The Bench, comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi, noted that matters concerning law and order are within the jurisdiction of the state government. They stated that the petitioner could approach the appropriate authorities with a representation and pursue necessary legal action.

This PIL was submitted under Article 32 by advocate Ujjawal Gaur, who appeared personally, and it brought forth claims of “arbitrary, violent, and unconstitutional state actions” during the Magh Mela, particularly on the day of Mauni Amavasya.

The petition alleged that minor religious students accompanying Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, the Shankaracharya of Jyotish Peeth (Jyotirmath), were “forcibly dragged, assaulted, and brutally beaten” by police when they attempted to perform the traditional holy dip at the Sangam on January 18.

Referring to video footage and images from the incident, the petition accused the police of pulling minors by their shikhas and using physical force, arguing that such actions constituted “cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment” in violation of Articles 14, 21, and 25 of the Constitution.

Additionally, the petition raised concerns over notices from the Prayagraj Mela administration alleging misuse of the religious title Shankaracharya and warning of possible cancellation of land allotment and facilities.

The petitioner sought the Supreme Court's intervention for establishing uniform Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to regulate interactions between state authorities and religious leaders during large gatherings like the Magh Mela, ensuring the protection of the dignity and rights of both ascetics and minor students.

The Magh Mela, which began on January 3 and concluded on Mahashivratri on February 15, was organized under the auspices of the Uttar Pradesh government.

The controversy escalated during the auspicious Mauni Amavasya bathing festival at the Magh Mela in Prayagraj when Swami Avimukteshwaranand attempted to proceed to the Sangam in a traditional palanquin procession.

The Prayagraj administration halted the procession, citing safety concerns and enforcing a “no-vehicle zone” policy due to the large number of attendees.

The ensuing clash between the Swami’s followers and police resulted in allegations of manhandling.

In response, Swami Avimukteshwaranand staged a sit-in protest and reportedly refused food and water, demanding an apology from the administration. The situation escalated further when the Magh Mela Authority issued a formal notice challenging his right to use the title 'Shankaracharya'.