‘Girls for Rs 25,000’ remark sparks outrage, Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya’s husband issues clarification

Dehradun: A video of the same statement by Girdhari Lal Sahu, husband of Uttarakhand cabinet minister Rekha Arya, went viral on social media, in which he is seen saying that “Girls are available for Rs 20-25 thousand in Bihar”—this comment seems to have been made from the stage of the program, and after the video came out, the matter quickly came into the limelight. 

How was the political reaction?

As soon as the video went viral, the opposition and some allies reacted sharply. Congress and RJD condemned this as an insult to women and poor thinking towards a particular region and demanded a public apology. Some leaders of Bihar also took cognizance of the incident and sought clarification and an apology from Girdhari Sahu. The cases took the form of political debate, and allegations and counter-allegations intensified over the video clip related to the incident. 

What did BJP and local leadership say?

Considering the sensitivity of the matter, there was a reaction within BJP also. Some BJP leaders termed the statement as condemnable and clarified that such remarks would not be considered in accordance with the party's policy; at the same time, some sections of the party also raised objections against the elements taking issue. The statement increased political pressure in both the states of Bihar and Uttarakhand. 

How did Girdhari Lal Sahu give clarification?

After it went viral and the protests increased, Girdhari Lal Sahu clarified the statement and said that his words had been distorted. He said that it was about an incident related to a friend's marriage, and his intention was not to insult any region or women; according to some reports, he also hinted at an apology later. However, the criticism is not subsiding, and many parties are demanding an apology as well as strict action. 

What is the social and legal meaning of this incident?

For political figures and those close to them—especially those who speak in public forums—the responsibility for language increases. Such statements not only hurt the dignity of women but also hurt social and cultural sensitivities. Some social media users and activists consider such cases human trafficking or trafficking in women.

What could happen next?

The immediate political response to the case and public pressure will continue to demand an explanation, apology, or necessary action from local and state leaders. If the opposition continues to make this a bigger issue, then the issue may even reach administrative or moral accountability. Public sentiment, media coverage, and social media trends will determine the course of the episode over the next few days.