New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh Minister Anil Rajbhar asserted on Monday that the administration acted with a sense of responsibility and prioritized public safety during the altercation involving Swami Avimukteshwaranand Shankaracharya and officials at the Sangam Ghat amidst the ongoing Prayagraj Mela.

In response to the ensuing controversy, Rajbhar stated, “The administration has already clarified this situation. Everyone witnessed the visuals yesterday, and today’s print media showcased photographs. At that moment, lakhs of individuals were present, engaged in bathing rituals.

“The administration merely requested that he either wait until the crowd diminished to ensure arrangements for his bath were made respectfully, or if he chose to proceed immediately, it would be challenging to travel by carriage.”

Supporting this viewpoint, UP Minister Kapil Dev Aggarwal emphasized that no one, regardless of their status, is exempt from security protocols during large public gatherings. He stated, “Currently, there are attempts to instigate disturbances. Vigilance is maintained, and strategies are in place to manage them. Regardless of who it is, whether they are esteemed elders or mahants, all are treated equally under these regulations. Violating these rules can lead to legal repercussions…”

This statement followed a chaotic incident at Sangam during the Mauni Amavasya bathing rituals, which is one of the most pivotal events of the Prayagraj Mela, drawing an unprecedented number of devotees. Officials indicated that the significant crowd density resulted in strict movement restrictions in sensitive areas to avert potential stampede situations.

On Sunday, the procession of Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwar Saraswati of Jyoti Peeth was interrupted after police designated the Sangam area as a no-vehicle zone due to safety concerns. Officials reportedly halted his vehicle from advancing toward the riverbank, citing the danger posed by the enormous crowd.

This restriction led to a contentious exchange between the Shankaracharya’s supporters and police, escalating into brief physical confrontations at the location. The situation heightened tensions within the fairgrounds, leading security personnel to step in and restore order.

Following the incident, Swami Avimukteshwaranand opted not to partake in the ceremonial holy dip at Sangam, expressing dissatisfaction with how authorities handled the situation.

Officials have reiterated that crowd control measures are uniformly enforced to ensure the safety of devotees during peak bathing hours, affirming the administration's commitment to maintaining order throughout the remainder of the mela.