BJP MLA alleges caste discrimination at temple renovation ceremony in Uttar Pradesh

A controversy emerged at the Shitala Temple in Kakori, Lucknow, during a foundation stone laying ceremony for renovation work when BJP MLA Jai Devi Kaushal alleged she faced discrimination based on her caste background.

Kaushal, the legislator from Malihabad, claimed she was prevented from performing worship rituals at the temple. She stated that she was not allowed to light incense or perform other ceremonial duties during the event, citing her belonging to the Pasi community as the reason for the alleged differential treatment.

The incident prompted Suraj Pasi, chief of the Lakhna Army organization, to issue a public challenge regarding worship rights at the temple. The confrontation has intensified tensions around caste-based access to religious spaces in the region.

Temple management has rejected the allegations of discrimination, maintaining that no such incident occurred during the ceremony. The matter has drawn attention to ongoing debates about caste-based practices in religious institutions across India.