Bihar Minister Chandrashekhar's Ramcharitmanas-Potassium Cyanide Comparison Draws Flak

Bihar Education Minister Chandrashekhar once again sparked controversy by asserting that Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem based on the Ramayana, contains "elements akin to potassium cyanide (poison)."

Speaking at an event celebrating Hindi Diwas, Chandrashekhar remarked that while Ramcharitmanas contains many positive aspects, it also includes some "harmful elements."

"It's like serving 55 delicious dishes and adding a dash of potassium cyanide to them. When I raise such issues, they accuse me of being anti-Hindu and against Sanatan Dharma. But when Mohan Bhagwat says something, no one objects," Chandrashekhar stated.

In response to his comments, senior BJP leader and spokesperson Arvind Singh said, "Chandrashekhar is a source of social toxicity. He is eager to spread negativity in society. The education minister poses a threat to education and humanity alike. He repeatedly makes statements against Ramcharitmanas and Sanatan Dharma. He and his leader, who only completed ninth grade, lack an understanding of Sanatan and Ramcharitmanas. In fact, the RJD is a source of social and political toxicity that is sowing discord in society. Bihar is witnessing crimes such as murder, theft, rape, and communal tension everywhere."

Earlier in January, Chandrashekhar had previously criticised Ramchartimanas and Manusmriti, stating that these books "foster hatred in society." Since then, he has consistently made statements against Ramcharitmanas.