Prayagraj Court Orders FIR Against Swami Avimuktateshwaranand

February 21, 2026

A Prayagraj court on Saturday ordered the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Jyotish Peeth Shankaracharya Swami Avimuktateshwaranand in connection with a child sexual abuse case, officials said. The action comes after the court found sufficient grounds to direct police to investigate the allegations.

Allegations and Court Direction

The case pertains to serious allegations of sexual abuse involving a minor, which were brought before the court through a petition. During proceedings, the judge reviewed preliminary evidence and noted that prima facie material existed to warrant a formal police probe.

Consequently, the court instructed the investigating agency to register an FIR against the seer and initiate an inquiry under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Legal Proceedings and Investigation

Following the court order, the Prayagraj police have been directed to record the FIR and begin formal investigation procedures, which include gathering evidence, recording statements from the complainant and witnesses, and submitting investigation reports to the court.

Law enforcement officials said the probe is expected to be conducted with “due sensitivity,” given the nature of the allegations and the involvement of a minor.

Response and Wider Implications

Swami Avimuktateshwaranand, a prominent religious figure associated with the Jyotish Peeth institution, is yet to make a public statement on the development. Legal experts note that if the FIR and ensuing investigation confirm the charges, multiple criminal sections related to sexual abuse and exploitation of minors could apply.

Child rights activists welcomed the court’s directive, saying that no individual regardless of social or religious stature should be exempt from legal scrutiny in cases involving abuse of children.

Next Legal Steps

Police are expected to complete initial investigation formalities and submit a status report before the court. The matter will be monitored closely as proceedings advance, and further legal actions are taken based on investigative findings.