BJP's handling of Haldwani ritual exposes 'double standards': Congress leader

Congress leader Uttam Kumar Reddy has criticized the Uttarakhand BJP's handling of a purification ritual controversy in Haldwani, arguing it demonstrates the party's inconsistent approach to sensitive social issues. Reddy took particular aim at Uttarakhand BJP president Mahendra Bhatt for defending the ritual despite widespread opposition to such practices.

Reddy characterized the BJP-RSS ecosystem's response as reflecting a "casteist and regressive mindset," according to his public statements. The Congress leader alleged that the party's defense of the ritual, combined with the filing of an FIR in connection with the incident, exemplified the BJP's double standards when addressing contentious cultural and religious matters.

The Haldwani ritual had drawn significant public attention and criticism from various quarters, with opponents arguing such practices perpetuate outdated caste-based hierarchies. The filing of the FIR marked an attempt to address complaints about the ritual, though the BJP's initial defense of the practice generated further controversy.

Reddy's comments reflect broader political tensions in Uttarakhand, where the BJP has governed the state. The Congress leader's critique highlights the party's continued focus on what it characterizes as regressive social practices among the ruling party's ideological allies.