Amidst the ongoing preparations for the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarananda has announced a surprising move: he will field candidates in all 243 constituencies. This decision has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, potentially causing the most significant disruption to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Currently touring Bihar, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarananda stated his intention to field ‘Gau Bhakt’ (cow devotee) candidates across all 243 seats in the upcoming elections. He explained that despite raising the demand to declare ‘Gau Mata’ (cow) as the ‘Rashtra Mata’ (Mother of the Nation) in the Parliament and approaching various national parties, he hasn’t received any explicit support. Therefore, his organization will now enter the electoral arena to champion the cause of religion and cow protection.
Shankaracharya also plans to campaign in favor of the candidates and appeal to Sanatani voters to choose the ‘Gau Bhakt’ candidates. He intends to meet with local saints to seek their support in this endeavor.
This announcement has drawn mixed reactions from political parties. RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmad emphasized the importance of separating religion from politics and advised against individuals in high religious positions entering politics, while also pointing out BJP’s alleged use of religion in politics. BJP spokesperson Prabhakar Mishra echoed this sentiment, suggesting that religious figures should avoid politics. The BJP plans to conduct a ‘Sanatan Samagam’ under the banner ‘Bande Sanatan’ to connect with people.
The Shankaracharya’s declaration has reignited the debate on Sanatan Dharma and cow protection amid the political fervor of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. Sources suggest that several BJP leaders are in contact with Shankaracharya, attempting to persuade him. If the Shankaracharya remains firm on his decision, the BJP could face setbacks in Bihar.