Shankaracharya questions Nagaland Government’s ban on his entry; Cites constitutional rights violation

Following a denial of entry at Dimapur airport on September 26, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati expressed his discontent in a press statement issued by his media team. He emphasized that neither he nor his movement aimed to oppose the culture of Nagaland, the state government, or its citizens. “This is a violation of our constitutional rights. Every person born in India can enter all places freely. And stopping us from meeting our people is a violation of our fundamental rights,” Shankaracharya stated.

According to the press statement, upon his arrival in Nagaland, Shankaracharya and his delegation were halted by Chumoukedima district’s Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Polan John, who informed them of a cabinet order from the Nagaland government prohibiting their event due to concerns that the visit could exacerbate the state’s sensitive situation.

Despite the restrictions, Shankaracharya proceeded to hoist the Gopratistha flag and recorded a video message for Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. In his message, he reiterated the call for Mother Cow to be declared the “Mother of the Nation,” emphasizing the peaceful intentions of his movement.

Accompanying Shankaracharya were Gopalmani, leader of the Gopratistha Movement, Swami Ambarishanand, Yatra in-charge Mukundanand Brahmachari, and Yatra Secretary Devendra Pandey. Although hundreds of devotees in Nagaland expressed support for his movement, many were unable to attend the event due to safety concerns, according to the press statement.

The statement concluded with a call for the Nagaland government to clarify its stance on the restrictions placed on entry into the state, highlighting the ongoing tension surrounding the situation. Shankaracharya’s visit, part of his Godhwaj Sthapana Bharat Yatra, aimed to promote national unity and cultural preservation.

MT