Lucknow, Jan. 21 -- Amid the controversy over the Prayagraj administration allegedly preventing Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati from taking a dip at the Sangam during the ongoing Magh Mela, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government, accusing it of violating the traditions of Sanatan Dharma.

Speaking to reporters, Yadav said that Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and other saints are a matter of pride, adding that during major religious events, it is natural for devotees to gather to meet them and seek their blessings. He stressed that this practice is an integral part of Sanatan Dharma.

"Look, Shankaracharya ji and all our saints and sages are ...