JAMMU: Shri Shri 1008 Shri Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj on Friday demanded a thorough inquiry into the false allegations levelled against the historic and prestigious Shri Dashnami Akhara in Poonch, asserting that attempts were being made to defame a centuries-old religious institution and hurt the sentiments of the followers of Sanatan Dharma.
Addressing the media in Poonch, Shri Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati Ji strongly objected to the remarks allegedly made in a social media post wherein false and purported claims were raised regarding the presence of “drug addicts” within the Shri Dashnami Akhara premises. He said that if anyone had evidences against a particular individual, the person concerned should be specifically identified instead of tarnishing the image of the entire religious institution thereby hurting the sentiments of a particular community.
“Nearly, 5 years ago in Delhi, someone had raised question on Sanatan Dharma, following which I addressed media and severely condemned it. Within three days Supreme Court had sent notices to states that there must not be any compromise in this regard”, said Shri Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati.
Describing Shri Dashnami Akhara as an ancient and revered religious seat, Shri Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati Ji asserted that irresponsible and false statements against the ‘saints’ create confusion among devotees and damage the sanctity associated with religious places. He maintained that no one has the right to make baseless allegations against religious institutions.
Shri Shri 1008 Shri Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati ji Maharaj also said that he would submit a written complaint to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Poonch, seeking a detailed inquiry into the matter. He also claimed that video evidence connected to the remarks would be handed over to the police authorities for investigation.
During the interaction, he also levelled allegations against the police personnel, claiming that the individual entered a Langar area and a place associated with offerings to Lord Hanuman while wearing shoes. He further alleged that the concerned official behaved in an inappropriate manner despite objections being raised.
Calling for strict legal action, the religious leader said the authorities should identify and act against anyone responsible for harming the sanctity and image of the religious establishment. He asserted that if any individual associated with the institution was found guilty of misconduct, appropriate action should also be taken against them.
The preparations for annual Shri Budha Amarnathji Yatra also figured prominently during the interaction. Shri Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati ji Maharaj expressed concern over the condition of the road leading to the pilgrimage site and urged the district administration to undertake repair and maintenance works at the earliest.
The religious leader reiterated that maintaining the sanctity of the Shri Budha Amarnathji shrine and ensuring proper arrangements for devotees should remain the top priority of the administration and all stakeholders involved.
