“Available For ₹25,000”: Uttarakhand Minister’s Husband Triggers Nationwide Outrage

Girdhari Lal Sahu, husband of Uttarakhand's Women and Child Welfare Minister Rekha Arya, has sparked a major controversy with derogatory remarks about women from Bihar, allegedly stating they are "available for marriage" for Rs 20,000–25,000. The comments, reportedly made during an event in Almora last month, surfaced in a viral video clip on January 2, 2026, drawing sharp criticism from opposition parties, women's rights groups, and the Bihar State Women Commission (BSWC). The remarks have been widely condemned as insulting to women and promoting harmful stereotypes.

In the purported video, Sahu is heard saying, "Will you get married in old age? If you are unable to get married, we will bring a girl for you from Bihar… you can get one there for Rs 20,000 to 25,000," followed by an offer to help arrange such marriages. The statement has been interpreted as trivializing marriage, objectifying women, and implying human trafficking or bride-buying practices. Following the uproar, Sahu issued a public apology, claiming his words were "twisted" and that he was only discussing a friend's marriage situation.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to which Minister Rekha Arya belongs, swiftly distanced itself from Sahu's remarks, with state media in-charge Manveer Singh Chauhan stating that Sahu has "no connection" with the party and condemning the "hateful thinking" behind the statement. The opposition Congress seized the opportunity to attack the BJP, with state president Ganesh Godiyal calling the remark an "insult to the daughters of India" and demanding an apology from the ruling party. Congress Mahila Morcha president Jyoti Rautela described the comments as "shameful," especially coming from the husband of the women and child welfare minister.

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The Bihar State Women Commission has announced it will issue a notice to Sahu, with chairperson Apsara strongly condemning the statement as evidence of "mental bankruptcy." She questioned how such views could be held by someone whose wife holds a key portfolio dedicated to women's welfare. The incident has reignited debates over gender sensitivity, regional stereotypes, and the responsibility of public figures' families to uphold dignity and respect.

As political parties trade accusations ahead of upcoming elections, the controversy has highlighted the need for greater sensitivity in public discourse, particularly on issues involving women and interstate relations. Sahu's apology has done little to quell the outrage, with demands growing for stricter accountability and action against those who make derogatory statements about women or specific communities. The episode serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to eliminate regressive attitudes and ensure respectful representation in public life.

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