Controversy Erupts Over Shankaracharya Title in Uttar Pradesh

The contentious issue of Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati's use of the Shankaracharya title has stirred a political row in Uttar Pradesh. The Congress party voiced intense criticism against the BJP, questioning the government's authority to challenge a revered Hindu position.

Tensions escalated when Saraswati was barred from participating in a traditional holy dip during the Mauni Amavasya. In response, he commenced a hunger strike, demanding an apology from local authorities, who issued a notice questioning his Shankaracharya title.

Pawan Khera of the Congress accused the BJP of crossing lines, equating their demands to those made upon Muslims to show identity papers. He suggested the situation reflects arrogance and a break from Indian traditions, placing the focus under national and global scrutiny.