BJP Expels Ex-Rajasthan MLA from Party Amid Temple Purification Rows

The ruling BJP in Rajasthan has dismissed Gyan Dev Ahuja, a former MLA involved in a temple "purification" dispute, from main membership. According to a party order, the action against Mr Ahuja was made following an investigation by the BJP's disciplinary committee. Mr Ahuja's primary membership in the BJP has been terminated for "indiscipline" by state president Madan Rathore, according to reports.

Mr Ahuja provoked outrage earlier this month when he sprayed Ganga water on a Ram shrine in Alwar to "purify" it after Congress politician Tikaram Jully attended a consecration ceremony there. Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot described Mr Ahuja's actions as a "insult" to a Dalit. Earlier on Sunday, Mr Ahuja went before the BJP's disciplinary committee to explain his position.

Later, speaking to reporters, he stated, "I have not done anything anti-Dalit." He argued that the BJP made a mistake by removing him due to Congress propaganda. He accused prominent Congress leaders, including President Mallikarjun Kharge, of defamation and stated that he will launch a complaint. Following the temple "purification" act, Mr Ahuja stated that Congress officials have "no moral authority" to attend such rituals because the party's leadership has questioned Lord Ram's existence and "boycotted" the consecration event in Ayodhya last year.