Akhilesh Yadav Divides Saints Amidst Magh Mela Controversy, Backs Swami Avimukteshwaranand

• Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav criticized the government over the Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati controversy at Magh Mela, Prayagraj.
• Yadav declared Swami Avimukteshwaranand an "authentic saint," stating true saints confront the government, unlike those who act at its behest.
• The controversy arose when fair administration stopped Swami Avimukteshwaranand's procession and issued a notice questioning his 'Shankaracharya' title, citing a sub judice Supreme Court matter.
• Akhilesh accused the BJP of insulting saints and breaking traditions, asserting that officials questioning a Shankaracharya is a grave insult.
• He spoke to Swami Avimukteshwaranand, expressing support and stating that while forgiveness is a virtue, tolerating insult is unacceptable.

Why It Matters: Akhilesh Yadav backed Swami Avimukteshwaranand, dividing saints into 'authentic' and 'government-aligned' amidst the Magh Mela row.