Bihar Congress MP Manoj Kumar Questions Caste Discrimination in Temples: “All Called Hindu in Name, Yet Discrimination Persists”

Sasaram/Delhi, Bihar: Congress MP from Sasaram, Manoj Kumar, has raised serious questions about caste-based restrictions in Indian temples, particularly concerning the recent decision by the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC). Highlighting the longstanding discrimination faced by Dalits, Kumar asked why such biases continue even against Hindus themselves.

Dalit Access to Temples
Speaking in Delhi, Kumar criticized that while BKTC discusses the rights of non-Hindus, thousands of Dalits in India still face restrictions in entering many temples. “Even today, Dalits are barred from entering several temples. If a Dalit enters, they are subjected to cleaning or humiliation. Why is this discrimination continuing?” he asked. He also questioned the logic behind non-Hindus visiting Hindu temples, noting, “A Muslim would go to a mosque, a Christian to a church, and a Sikh to a Gurudwara.”

“All Called Hindu, Yet Discriminated”
Kumar emphasized that the discrimination against Dalits has persisted for thousands of years. “In name, we are all called Hindus or Sanatanis, yet in practice, the bias continues. We are not non-Hindus; we are Hindus. So why is such discrimination allowed? When will it end?”

Expectations from the Budget Session
Turning to the upcoming 2026 Budget Session, Kumar expressed hope that it will provide relief to citizens amid soaring inflation. “The nation is watching this session closely. Young people expect measures to address unemployment. Vacancies exist in railways, banks, and several ministries. Educated youth hope the budget will provide jobs. Farmers also expect relief,” he said.

Focus on Farmers, Education, and Health
Kumar highlighted the hardships faced by Bihar’s farmers, who struggle to access fertilizers and sell their crops. He also noted the need to improve education and healthcare, citing hospitals like AIIMS where patients still sleep without blankets. “Everyone hopes this budget will benefit the common people and provide real relief,” he added.