In Varanasi, Swami Avimukteshwaranand has raised serious questions about Uttar Pradesh Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak's action of honoring 101 Batuks. The entire incident began during the Magh Mela on Mauni Amavasya when police officers allegedly pulled the Shikha of Vedic students and assaulted them. Recently, the Deputy CM denounced the act as a 'sin' and honored the Batuks at his residence, which Shankaracharya criticized as insufficient and contradictory. Avimukteshwaranand announced he would march to Lucknow on March 11 if justice is not served. Meanwhile, SP legislator Ravidass Mehrotra questioned the government's delayed response and called for Pathak's resignation.
Avimukteshwaranand's Critique: First you beat, then you offer flowers
Mocking the Deputy CM's ceremony, Swami Avimukteshwaranand stated, "Will this bring peace? How can you beat someone and then offer flowers?" Reacting to CM Yogi Adityanath's remarks on 'dignity,' he asserted that holding a high office doesn’t grant a license for injustice. He accused the administration of disrespecting Sanatan Dharma symbols despite their saffron attire.
Deputy CM's Revelation of 'Sin' and Honor
Alternatively, Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak invited 101 Batuks to his residence, adorned them with garlands, and honored their Shikha, thereby seeking blessings. He publicly acknowledged the incident with the Batuks as a 'sin.' Pathak emphasized societal responsibility to respect traditions. His gesture is perceived as a firm message against police brutality. However, Avimukteshwaranand believes Pathak is under pressure and surrounded by Kalnemi-like forces.
Political Turmoil and Demand for Resignation
The Samajwadi Party has also entered the fray over this religious conflict. SP legislator Ravidass Mehrotra pointed out that the Deputy CM took a month to understand an issue raised by their party from the beginning. He demanded Brajesh Pathak's resignation on moral grounds. Meanwhile, UP Minister Narendra Kashyap defended the CM, stating that merely writing 'Shankaracharya' doesn't make one a Shankaracharya, adding that the disciples' actions were unjustified but assured actions would be taken against the wrongdoers.
March to Lucknow on March 11 Announced
Avimukteshwaranand made it clear he is not satisfied with statements and symbolic respect. He labeled this as an attack on the Sanatan Dharma flag (Shikha). He warned that the one committing injustice and atrocities is ultimately trapped. With his supporters and Batuks, he will march to Lucknow on March 11 demanding justice. This escalating tension between the government and saints might significantly impact Uttar Pradesh's politics in the coming days.
