While Swami Raghaveshwara Bharati could not find time to speak to Outlook, followers of Ramachandrapura Mutt are fully behind the pontiff despite the cases against him, claimed Mohan Bhasker Hegde, personal secretary to the seer. In an emailed response received after the story had been printed, he told Outlook that a conspiracy to tar the image of the seer has been going on for a long time.
How would you react to recent developments?
Recent developments have a long history and to respond to them in a few words may be difficult. However, to be precise in our reply, we are not surprised about this as this was expected given the statutory protection provided to such complaints. There is no mechanism in law to filter the complaints of this nature and law requires that a charge sheet is filed in cases of such nature. We have full faith in the judiciary and the truth is on our side. Ultimately the truth has to prevail.
Recently, a second complaint was also filed in Bangalore. How would you respond to this?
The second complaint is also part of the conspiracy and a plain reading of the complaint reveals that it is false and fabricated. It is unfortunate that people are not even bothered about their self-esteem and reputation. When eventually truth prevails, all these characters will disappear.
The Mutt's spokespersons suggested in a recent press conference that these cases are part of an effort to remove the seer from the 'peetha'. Why is this?
This conspiracy has a long history and there are certain people who are going to benefit from tanning the image of our Guruji. Our Guruji has attained popularity in the shortest time and has overshadowed several people and institutions.
Is there a power struggle then in the Ramachandrapura Mutt?
It is an attack from outside. We will face it and the whole world will come to know about our Guruji's innocence.
What has been the reaction among followers?
Followers of the Mutt are totally behind us and the recently concluded Chaturmasya Vrata is an indication. After the second complaint it has further become evident that the whole episode is a fabricated and stage-managed one and that the beneficiaries of this are not coming out.
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