Ahimsa Crusader

Muni Shri Maitri PrabhSagarji Maharaj

मुनिश्री मैत्री प्रभसागरजी महाराज

A fearless ascetic who stood against the establishment of slaughterhouses. His fast-unto-death sparked a global movement for animal rights and non-violence.

Muni Maitri PrabhSagarji
Voice of the Voiceless

The Struggle for Animal Rights

In 2011, Uttar Pradesh faced a massive spiritual uprising. The government moved to set up 8 modern slaughterhouses (abattoirs) in the state, prompting Muni Shri Maitri PrabhSagarji to take a drastic stand for Ahimsa.

The movement was not just a religious protest but a humanitarian appeal to save countless innocent lives. It gained massive support from all walks of life across India and international support from countries like England and the USA.

Timeline of the Movement (2011)
26th April 2011 Fast-Unto-Death Begins: Munishri began his indefinite fast to register his protest against the UP Government's decision.
10th May 2011 Meerut Bandh: A historic strike where the city shut down in support of the monk. The success of this bandh shook the administration.
17th Day of Fast (2:00 AM) The Arrest: In a bid to disrupt the movement, police arrested the honorable monk at 2 AM along with 100 supporters.

Violation of Jain Monastic Code

The arrest of Munishri was not just a legal action but a profound disrespect to Jain traditions.

  • Vehicle Use: Jain monks (Sadhus) strictly travel on foot (Vihar) and never use vehicles. The police forcibly picked him up in a Jeep.
  • Night Travel: Jain monks do not travel at night to avoid harm to insects and small organisms. He was moved at 2:00 AM.

"This act of police is a wholesome dishonour of Jain Tradition and Jainism at large."

Ahimsa Sangh Appeal

"Stand up now! Else coming generations will not forgive you."

The movement also saw Munishri Chinmay Sagarji being stopped by police while he was on his way to support the protest. The Ahimsa Sangh continues to request all animal lovers and activists to unite against acts of violence towards animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

He went on a fast-unto-death to protest against the Uttar Pradesh government's proposal to establish 8 modern, mechanized slaughterhouses, which would have led to the mass killing of animals, violating the core Jain principle of Ahimsa.

The arrest forced the monk to break his monastic vows. Jain monks do not use vehicles or travel at night. By forcibly putting him in a jeep at 2:00 AM, the authorities showed a disregard for the religious code of conduct governing Digambara monks.

The Meerut Bandh was a city-wide strike organized on 10th May 2011 to show solidarity with Munishri. It was highly successful, demonstrating the massive public support for the cause of animal protection, which pressured the administration.