Key Points
- Abhay Singh, popularly known as IIT Baba, alleges he was assaulted by saffron-clad men during a news debate in Noida.
- The incident led to a protest outside a police post, which was later withdrawn after police intervention.
- IIT Baba, an IIT Bombay alumnus and former aerospace engineer, has faced controversies, including expulsion from Juna Akhara.
- His transformation from an engineer earning ₹3 lakh/month in Canada to a spiritual figure has intrigued many.
Noida: Abhay Singh, famously known as IIT Baba, found himself at the center of controversy yet again after alleging that he was physically assaulted during a debate at a private news channel’s studio in Noida on Friday. According to Singh, a group of saffron-clad individuals entered the newsroom during the debate and attacked him with sticks. The incident has sparked outrage and discussions across social media platforms.
Following the altercation, IIT Baba staged a protest outside the Sector 126 police post in Noida, demanding action against the attackers. However, after police intervention and assurances of action, he withdrew his protest without filing an official complaint.
What Happened Inside the Newsroom?
The scuffle reportedly broke out while IIT Baba was participating in a heated debate on spirituality and modern practices. According to Singh’s complaint, some individuals present at the debate misbehaved with him before physically assaulting him. “One of them even hit me with a stick and locked me inside a room,” Singh claimed during an Instagram Live session where he narrated his ordeal to followers.
A video of the incident showing a scuffle between Singh and other participants has gone viral on social media, adding fuel to the controversy. The police have yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter.
From Aerospace Engineer to ‘IIT Baba’
Abhay Singh’s journey from an aerospace engineer at IIT Bombay to a spiritual figure has fascinated many. Hailing from Haryana’s Jhajjar district, Singh graduated with a degree in aerospace engineering and later pursued a high-paying career in Canada, earning approximately ₹3 lakh per month. However, feelings of unfulfillment and depression led him to leave his corporate life behind and embrace spirituality.
Singh returned to India in search of purpose and eventually joined Shri Panchdashnam Juna Akhara, one of India’s oldest monastic orders. His presence at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj earned him widespread attention as “IIT Baba,” owing to his prestigious academic background.
Controversies Surrounding IIT Baba
While his story of renunciation gained him fame, it has not been without controversies. Earlier this year, Juna Akhara expelled Singh for allegedly violating its sacred guru-shishya (master-disciple) tradition and using abusive language against his guru. The Akhara emphasized that discipline and devotion are fundamental tenets of sanyas (renunciation), which Singh reportedly failed to uphold.
Additionally, critics have questioned the authenticity of some of his claims about his spiritual journey and academic credentials. Despite this skepticism, Singh continues to maintain his identity as “IIT Baba” and remains active on social media with over 3 lakh followers.
A Polarizing Figure
IIT Baba’s bold statements and unconventional path have made him both a celebrated and controversial figure. Recently, he faced backlash for predicting India’s defeat against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy—a prophecy that went viral after India emerged victorious. Social media users trolled him relentlessly for his incorrect prediction.
What’s Next?
The alleged assault during the news debate has further complicated IIT Baba’s already controversial public image. While he did not file an official police complaint this time, the incident raises questions about safety within news studios during live debates.
As IIT Baba continues his spiritual journey amidst controversies, his story remains one of intrigue a mix of academic brilliance, personal struggles, renunciation, and public scrutiny. Whether he emerges stronger from these challenges or fades into obscurity remains to be seen.
