Ayodhya GST Officer Resigns in Support of Yogi Adityanath: Full Story

Lucknow/Ayodhya: The ongoing tussle between the Uttar Pradesh administration and Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati has taken a dramatic turn. In an unprecedented move, a senior government officer in Ayodhya has resigned from his post, declaring his unwavering support for Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

On Tuesday (January 27, 2026), Prashant Kumar Singh, the Deputy Commissioner of GST in Ayodhya, submitted his resignation, citing “deep anguish” over the remarks made by the Shankaracharya against the Chief Minister and Prime Minister. This incident has sparked a massive debate across the state about the bureaucracy’s involvement in religious-political rows.

Why Did the Officer Resign?

Prashant Kumar Singh, a Provincial Civil Service (PCS) officer, sent his resignation letter directly to the Governor of Uttar Pradesh. In a video that surfaced shortly after, an emotional Singh was seen explaining his decision to his family.

• The Reason: Singh stated that he could no longer tolerate the “insulting and baseless allegations” leveled against CM Yogi Adityanath and PM Narendra Modi by the seer.
• The Statement: “I am resigning in support of the government and the Constitution. Attempts are being made to divide the country on caste and religious lines from the holy land of Prayagraj, and my conscience does not allow me to serve silently,” Singh reportedly said.
• Viral Video: In the viral clip, Singh is heard saying, “Mujhse bardasht nahi hua” (I could not tolerate it), referring to the criticism of the state leadership.

Context: The Shankaracharya vs Yogi Government Row

The controversy has been brewing for over ten days during the ongoing Magh Mela 2026 in Prayagraj.

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1. The Trigger: The conflict began around January 18 (Mauni Amavasya), when the administration allegedly stopped Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s chariot from entering a crowded zone near the Sangam to prevent a stampede-like situation.
2. The Allegations: The Shankaracharya accused the police of “manhandling” his followers and disrespecting his position. He has been sitting on a dharna (protest) at his camp since then.
3. Administration’s Notice: To make matters worse, the Mela administration served a notice to the seer, asking him to explain why his land allotment should not be cancelled for “disturbing peace.” They also questioned his use of the title ‘Shankaracharya’, citing a Supreme Court stay.

CM Yogi’s “Kalnemi” Remark

While Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has not named the seer directly, his recent speech in Sonipat was seen as a veiled counter-attack.

• The Comment: CM Yogi warned people to beware of “Kalnemi” forces (a demon in the Ramayana who disguised himself as a sage).
• The Meaning: He stated that some people were trying to weaken Sanatan Dharma from within while pretending to be religious leaders. This comment was widely interpreted as a response to the protesting seer.

What Happens Next?

The resignation of a serving officer has complicated the situation for the state government.

• Opposition Reaction: Samajwadi Party (SP) and Congress leaders have supported the Shankaracharya, accusing the BJP government of being “fake protectors” of Sanatan Dharma who disrespect top religious figures.
• Government Stance: The government has not yet accepted Singh’s resignation officially. Senior officials are likely to try and persuade him to withdraw it.
• Magh Mela Impact: Security has been tightened around the Shankaracharya’s camp in Prayagraj to prevent any flare-ups as millions of devotees continue to arrive for the Basant Panchami bath.

Why This Matters

This incident highlights a rare moment where the lines between administrative duty and ideological loyalty have blurred. An officer resigning to protect the political image of a Chief Minister is highly unusual and indicates the intense polarization surrounding the issue.

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