The escalating conflict between Jyotish Peeth Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand and the administration during the Prayagraj Magh Mela has developed into a fierce battle of statements within the top leadership of Uttar Pradesh politics. In response to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's 'Kalnemi' comment from the previous day and Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya's characterization of the Shankaracharya as a 'venerable saint' while offering his respects has sparked new debates in political corridors.
Yogi's 'Kalnemi' Strike: Who Was It Aimed At?
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath referred to the character 'Kalnemi' from Ramcharitmanas in his recent address. In ancient tales, Kalnemi was the demon who disguised himself as a sage to obstruct Lord Hanuman. CM Yogi equates the Magh Mela to a 'yajna', and his remark is interpreted to imply that anyone obstructing the event is akin to Kalnemi.
Although some experts perceive this as an attack on the opposition, the timing of the statement directly links it to the incident with Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand. Both the administration and CM Yogi have maintained a firm stance on this issue.
Keshav Prasad Maurya's Soft Stand: Is This Track-2 Diplomacy?
Contrary to the CM's firm position, Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya labeled Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand as a 'venerable saint' and promised a governmental investigation into the events that occurred with him. He not only expressed respect for him but also conveyed his greetings, which is seen as a response countering CM Yogi's stance.
Political analysts suggest that this may not simply be a matter of opinion differences, but rather BJP and Sangh Parivar's 'Track-2 Diplomacy'. Maurya has a background in the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and is deeply respected among saints. Thus, when the administration and the CM remain unyielding, Maurya may be attempting to pacify the anger of the saints and find a middle ground.
Political Implications: Are Engines Clashing?
This contradictory situation has sparked discussions among the opposition and in political corridors about whether the 'two engines' of the UP government are now clashing. On one hand, the administration has taken a stringent approach by posting notices on Shankaracharya's camp, while on the other, the sympathetic statement from one of the highest ranks in the government raises questions of internal discord.
Whether this is Keshav Maurya's independent stance or a calculated strategy of the Sangh Parivar, time will tell. But for now, Shankaracharya's protest and the government's statements have stirred the political waters in Uttar Pradesh.
