The incident of misconduct against storyteller Mukut Mani Singh in Etawah, Uttar Pradesh, has shocked the entire nation. Mukut Mani was not only prevented from narrating stories but was also humiliated, his head shaved, and he was severely beaten. The echoes of this incident have now reached Tikulia village in the Adapur police station area of East Champaran district, Bihar. A ban has been imposed on Brahmins performing puja-path (religious rituals) in the village.
In Tikulia village, a slogan has been written on every electricity pole and many boards: “Brahmins are strictly prohibited from performing puja-path in this village; punishment will be given if caught.” This slogan can be clearly seen on almost every pole, from the village entrance to the end.
When villagers were questioned about the matter, they said that their protest is against those Brahmins who do not have proper knowledge of the Vedas and Sanskrit and consume meat and alcohol. The villagers say that they respect those who are knowledgeable about the Vedas, regardless of their caste or religion. Preventing people from performing puja-path based on caste identity is not only against the constitution but also endangers social harmony.
The people of Tikulia village say that it is the responsibility of the government and the administration to take strict action in cases like Etawah and immediately curb the elements spreading hatred. The Etawah incident is shameful. Those who are guilty of that incident should not be spared.
Meanwhile, as soon as the Tikulia village matter came to the notice of the police, a team immediately reached the village. According to the station officer, the boards are being removed. The messages written there are also being erased. The police are searching for whoever did this.
