BJP suspends ex-MLA for ‘sanitizing’ temple following Dalit leader’s visit.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has suspended its prominent Rajasthan leader and ex-MLA, Gyan Dev Ahuja, after he “purified” a temple in Alwar after the visit of a Dalit Congress leader.

On Tuesday, the BJP issued him a show cause notice, requesting a response within three days. The ruling party also stated that disciplinary measures would be imposed on him if he does not comply, as his actions have damaged the party’s reputation.

Congress leader Tikaram Jully attended the consecration ceremony of a Ram temple in Ramgarh, Alwar, on Sunday. Following the event, Ahuja’s video surfaced on social media on Monday, showcasing him rationalizing his act of “purifying” the temple by using ganga jal.

The action triggered anger throughout the state, leading to demonstrations by Congress activists, who claimed that the BJP is an anti-Dalit party.

“I have raised the untouchability issue in the assembly and will lead a campaign against it. The BJP is purifying the temple because of my Dalit identity. It is not only an attack on my faith, but will also potentially encourage crimes related to untouchability,” Jully said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.

This isn’t the first occasion Ahuja has faced criticism for his behavior. He has sparked controversies in the past for backing cow vigilantes and criticizing Jawaharlal Nehru University students, asserting that 3,000 used condoms and 2,000 liquor bottles were discovered daily on its campus.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday criticized the BJP, labeling it as a party against Dalits. “Another example of BJP’s anti-Dalit and Manuvadi thinking! BJP has been continuously insulting Dalits and attacking the Constitution. That is why it is important not just to respect the Constitution but also to protect it,” Gandhi posted on X.