Ayodhya's Deputy Commissioner of Goods and Services Tax (GST), Prashant Kumar Singh, has resigned from his post, citing deep personal anguish over remarks he perceived as derogatory towards Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The resignation is linked to the ongoing controversy surrounding statements made by Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand.

Singh submitted his resignation to the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, expressing that he could no longer tolerate what he considered an insult to the Chief Minister. He conveyed feeling deeply hurt by the language used against the head of the state. Singh also voiced his solidarity with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

In his resignation letter, Singh stated that Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand is attempting to incite officers against the government by luring them and that this plot against democracy is harming the Indian constitution. He also said that the Shankaracharya has been spreading casteism in society and trying to destabilize the country.

The controversy stems from an incident on January 18, 2026, where police reportedly stopped Avimukteshwaranand's palanquin as he proceeded towards the Sangam Nose for a holy dip during Mauni Amavasya. The administration stated that the chariot was stopped due to the large crowds and the risk of a stampede. This led to a dispute, with allegations that Avimukteshwaranand's disciples were assaulted.

Singh, in explaining his decision, emphasized his connection to the state. "I eat the salt of this state and my family survives on its salary. If unparliamentary words are used against the Chief Minister, I will naturally feel the pain," he stated. He added that he struggled for two days before deciding to resign. Singh also said that while the Constitution allows for peaceful protest, public discourse should remain respectful. He believes disrespectful statements create division within society.

Videos have emerged of Singh expressing his emotions, including one where he is tearful while informing his wife of his decision, stating he could not bear the perceived disrespect towards someone whose salt he eats.

The Shankaracharya, Avimukteshwaranand, has been critical of the Modi government's policies. Following the palanquin incident, questions were raised regarding Avimukteshwaranand's right to use the title of Shankaracharya, with the matter reportedly pending before the Supreme Court. A notice was issued questioning his title. Yogi Adityanath made a remark that was perceived as a reference to the Shankaracharya.

This resignation follows a similar action by Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri, who also resigned, citing the Shankaracharya row and alleging an "anti-Brahmin campaign" within the Uttar Pradesh government. Agnihotri stated that the government failed to take notice of the disrespect towards the Shankaracharya and his disciples.

These resignations highlight the escalating tensions between the administration and religious figures in Uttar Pradesh. The Shankaracharya tradition is rooted in the Advaita Vedanta tradition of Hinduism, with the title used by the heads of specific monasteries (Mathas) tracing back to Adi Shankara. Adi Shankara established four main Mathas in the north, south, east and west of India.