A controversy has erupted after Girdhari Lal Sahu, the husband of Uttarakhand Women and Child Welfare Minister Rekha Arya, allegedly remarked that girls from Bihar could be married for Rs 20,000–25,000. The comments, believed to have been made during an event in Almora last month, have drawn sharp criticism from the opposition Congress and the Bihar State Women Commission.
In a video circulating on social media, Sahu is heard telling attendees that if someone was unable to find a bride, a woman from Bihar could be arranged for the stated amount. He also reportedly joked that those facing difficulties in getting married should accompany him so he could help arrange it.
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Following the backlash, Sahu issued a video statement claiming his remarks were being misinterpreted and that he was referring only to the marriage of a friend. He added that he was sorry if his words had caused offence.
While Rekha Arya has not commented on the controversy so far, the BJP has moved to distance itself from Sahu’s remarks, as criticism continues to mount.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
