Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi Counters Rahul Gandhi, Chirag Paswan on Temple Purification Issue in Gaya

Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi addressed a gathering in Gaya, Bihar, where he responded to recent comments made by Rahul Gandhi and Chirag Paswan. The senior leader took the opportunity to challenge their statements on the ongoing temple purification debate, labeling the issue as a reflection of limited societal outlook.

Manjhi emphasized that the controversy surrounding temple cleaning is not merely a religious matter but stems from a broader mindset that restricts progressive thinking. He urged the public to move beyond narrow interpretations and focus on inclusive development.

The minister’s remarks came during a secular programme organised by local groups, highlighting the political sensitivity of the topic in the state. While Gandhi and Paswan had earlier highlighted concerns over the ritual, Manjhi’s counter‑argument underscored the need for a more rational discourse.

No official response from the opposition leaders was recorded at the time, and the event concluded without further escalation.