An offensive remark allegedly made by Girdhari Lal Sahu, husband of Uttarakhand Minister Rekha Arya, about women from Bihar has caused a significant political stir in the state. In a viral video, Sahu is heard suggesting that women from Bihar can be married for Rs 20,000–25,000, leading to widespread criticism from various political quarters.
The circulation of the video has heightened political activities in Bihar. IP Gupta, MLA from Saharsa and president of the Indian Inclusive Party, has offered a reward of Rs 10 lakh for anyone who captures Girdhari Lal Sahu if he enters Bihar, further fueling the controversy. Leaders from both the ruling alliance and the opposition have strongly denounced the remark.
Purnea MP Rajesh Ranjan, also known as Pappu Yadav, reacted strongly to the comment, calling for severe consequences for such statements. Leaders within the NDA in Bihar have distanced themselves from the offensive remark, with Bihar Minister Dilip Jaiswal condemning Sahu’s statement unequivocally.
Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has criticized the remark, labeling the act of pricing a woman’s marriage as disgraceful and intolerable. He has urged the Uttarakhand BJP government to take strict action. Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, currently abroad, criticized the BJP via social media, highlighting the mindset of BJP leaders towards women and people from Bihar.
The controversy has now evolved into a multi-state political issue, with mounting pressure on the Uttarakhand government to address the situation decisively. This incident has reignited discussions on women’s dignity, responsible speech, and political accountability, particularly among individuals associated with public figures.
