BJP recently faced backlash after Rajasthan party leader and MLA from Tijara constituency Mahant Balaknath allegedly made casteist comment. In order to handle the situation, BJP state president Madan Rathore came forward and apologized.

What did MLA Mahant Balaknath say?

During a review visit to check the status of the ongoing development work in his Assembly constituency of Tijara, Balaknath reprimanded officials who were over seing the development project for the alleged poor construction of a road. He even spoke to a Junior Engineer over the phone and reportedly made caste-based remarks.

His remark went viral and triggered criticism from members of the Mali community. Members of the community have demanded public apology. The head of the Narayani Dham Mahasabha, Vinod Karel said that 90 percent of Mali community are supports of BJP and such a remark by the representative of BJP has hurt their dignity. “We are only asking for respect and a public apology.”

After criticism and sharp reaction from the community, a delegation of Mali community leaders, including Karel himself met Madan Rathore in Jaipur, and expressed their sentiments, they said Rathore, “If Balaknath does not apologise, we will also approach the Chief Minister,”.

Another representative of the Mali community Ramavtar said, “We have openly supported the BJP during Vasundhara Raje’s tenure and now under Bhajan Lal Sharma. But such incidents are humiliating for the community. Today it is one MLA; tomorrow it could be another, this is unacceptable.”

Reaction of Mali community members

Post meeting the meeting, Rathore appologised, he said as the head of the family, he is sorry. He shared that he has conveyed apologies to the concerned leader. “When members of a particular community have supported us, it is my responsibility to apologise. Community and their sentiments is always above everything, and if such a derogatory remark is made it is concerning.”

Following Rathore’s apology, MLA Balaknath also issued an apology on social media. He said, “I was just giving necessary instructions to officials incharge of the development work and the poor construction and negligence in their work made me angry. There wasn’t any intension to hurt any caste or community.” He noted, “Even then, if any of my remarks have hurt the sentiments of the Saini community, I express my regret. I hope the community will understand my intent and continue to extend their support and affection as before.”

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