In a concerning development, security measures were intensified at the Varanasi court complex after senior advocate Shrinath Tripathi, who is representing Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati in a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) case, received a bomb threat via text message on Thursday. According to police officials, the message contained a warning stating, “We will blow up Varanasi court and you too.” This alarming communication prompted immediate action within the Cantt police station jurisdiction, where Tripathi is based.

The authorities took the threat seriously, sending the City Magistrate, the Assistant Commissioner of Police, and the Inspector of the Cantt to the court to confer with the lawyer about the incident. Tripathi confirmed that he had lodged a formal complaint with the district judge in Varanasi regarding the threat. Officials have assured that appropriate legal steps will be taken in response to the formal representation.

As a precaution, bomb disposal units and canine teams conducted an extensive search of the court premises. Fortunately, no suspicious items were found during the security sweep. Judicial activities at the court complex continued as scheduled, though law enforcement agencies indicated that they are maintaining increased surveillance to ensure safety and security in the area.

Context of the Case Involving Shankaracharya

This incident coincides with ongoing legal proceedings concerning Jyotish Peeth’s Shankaracharya, Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, who is currently facing allegations of sexual exploitation. The case emerged following an FIR filed in Prayagraj, initiated on the orders of the court, naming the seer along with his disciple Mukundanand Brahmachari and two to three unnamed individuals.

The allegations assert that two disciples, including a minor, were subjected to sexual exploitation during the period of January 13, 2025, to February 15, 2026. According to the complaint, these incidents allegedly occurred at religious camps affiliated with the upcoming Kumbh Mela in 2025 and the Magh Mela in 2026, both inside the camp premises and in a vehicle outside during the Magh Mela.

In light of the allegations, Avimukteshwaranand has vehemently denied the charges, branding the FIR as a “manufactured conspiracy” aimed at damaging his reputation. He has expressed skepticism regarding the impartiality of the police investigation and has called for a thorough, high-level inquiry, asserting his willingness to fully cooperate with authorities. The seer also highlighted discrepancies in the complainant’s affidavits presented to the court, arguing that the allegations are part of efforts to hinder his religious outreach and cow protection initiatives.

As investigations continue, police officials indicated that statements from all relevant parties will be taken into consideration. To date, no arrests have been made in connection with the case.

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