In a shocking incident, just days before the commencement of Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, the Juna Akhara expelled Mahant Kaushal Giri for seven years following allegations of accepting a 13-year-old girl as a "daan" (donation) and initiating her as a Sadhvi (female ascetic). "Akhara stands firmly against practices that harm the dignity of individuals, especially minors," said an Akhara spokesperson.