Tensions flare as Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarananda’s convoy stopped near Sangam

Prayagraj (The Uttam Hindu): A major controversy erupted amid tight security arrangements on the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya in the Sangam city. Police stopped the convoy of Jyotirpeeth Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati from proceeding towards the Sangam shore, leading to a tense situation in the fair area for some time.

According to the police administration, the fair area has been declared a "no-vehicle zone" in view of the Mauni Amavasya bath. Under this, no large convoys or vehicles were being allowed to proceed. When Shankaracharya's convoy was stopped, a heated argument broke out between his supporters and the police, which quickly escalated into a scuffle.

As the situation escalated, police pushed back supporters to control the crowd, causing outrage among the saint community. Following the incident, the Sangam area remained tense.

The fair administration also began temporarily removing media personnel from the area for security reasons. Officials say Shankaracharya had requested to walk to the Sangam, but there were fears of a stampede due to his large number of followers.

Divisional Commissioner Soumya Agarwal clarified that permission to travel to the Sangam by chariot or vehicle will not be granted without permission. She said that the administration is fully vigilant about the honor and safety of the saints, but everyone will be allowed to proceed only within the established rules.