Prayagraj: The Juna Akhada in Prayagraj has expelled Mahant Kaushal Giri for seven years for allegedly conferring ‘sanyasi deeksha’ (initiation) to a minor girl to become a saint. After expelling the Mahant, the Akhada also sent the 13-year-old girl back to her parents in Agra. As per the rule of the Juna Akhada, no minor girl can be given initiation or encouraged to become a saint.
The father of the minor girl, who is a businessman, had approached Mahant Kaushal Giri to make his daughter a saint. However, on Friday, the top position holders of the Akhada met to discuss the development. Following their discussion, it was decided to expel Mahant Kaushal Giri from the Akhada for seven years and send the girl back.
Maha Kumbh Mela all set to begin on January 13
Meanwhile, preparations are on in Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela which will begin on January 13 and go on till February 26. While seers continue to arrive in the city tents and shops are being set up to ensure that pilgrims don’t face any kind of difficulties.
The law enforcement agencies have also fully prepared to prevent any untoward incident during the mega event. While patrolling parties will keep watchful eyes, drones will also be used to track the movements in and around the city.
Arrangements made for special trains and flight services
According to authorities, close to 40 crore pilgrims from India and abroad are expected to participate in the event which will span over 40 days. Arrangements have been made for special trains and flight services from across the country, to help devotees reach Prayagraj without any kind of trouble.
