Police Guard Adavisiddheshwara Mutt Amidst Controversy in Belagavi

BELAGAVI: The Adavisiddheshwara branch of the Math in Shivapura village, Mundalagi taluk, has been under police guard since Wednesday morning following tensions around the expulsion of Swamiji Adavisiddharama. He was expelled by some villagers on Sunday amid allegations of harboring a woman in the monastery.

Despite the accusations, hundreds of devotees have rallied in support of Swamiji, insisting he has done nothing wrong and demanding his return to the Math. Supporters approached the Gokak NSF office to seek resolution through the mediation of Arabhavi MLA Balachandra Jarkiholi, who met with prominent pontiffs and promised to address the issue.

Over three days, the village remains divided, with some devotees welcoming Swamiji’s return while others oppose it. Social media videos reflecting both sides have intensified the sensitive atmosphere in the village.

In response, police have been deployed to guard the monastery and prohibit entry until the dispute is resolved, according to PSI Raju Poojeri. The authorities aim to maintain peace as the community awaits a final decision.