15 years on, Inquiry Commission’s report on Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati murder yet to be made public

Phulbani: Almost fifteen years have passed but the Odisha Government is yet to make public the report submitted by Justice AS Naidu Commission of Inquiry which probed into the cold-blooded murder of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati at Jalespata Ashram in Chakapada of Kandhamal district.

The senior VHP leader and his four associates were killed in the hermitage on August 23, 2008.

A spokesperson of the Ashram said that the fatal mishap had occurred on Janmashtami. Subsequently, Swamiji’s mortal remains were given Samadhi at the Gurukul Ashram by his followers. As per the Hindu rituals, his Tirodhan Divas (death anniversary) is to be observed starting today afternoon and will continue till tomorrow when the Tithi will be over, along with the observance of Janmashtami Puja.

Hundreds of disciples are expected to throng the Ashram on this occasion, the spokesperson added.

“When will Swami Laxmanananda’s killers be brought to justice?” many inmates questioned.

“Swamiji’s murder is a delicate issue involving the sentiments of millions of people. However, the Inquiry Commission’s report has not been brought to the limelight. The issue is being debated every year and forgotten with the passage of time,” lamented Ashram chief Swami Krushnananda Saraswati.