Controversy Erupts Over Alleged Tax on Shiva Devotees in Jharkhand’s Dalma Hills

A major controversy has erupted in Jharkhand following allegations by the BJP that the state government is levying a tax on Shiva devotees visiting the Dalma hills during the Sawan month. The BJP’s accusations, led by spokesperson Pratul Shahdev, claim that the government is collecting funds from devotees, effectively branding it as a ‘Jaziya tax’. The fees are reportedly being collected at check posts set up by the forest department. The BJP has expressed strong disapproval and demanded the immediate cancellation of the practice, citing the importance of the Dalma temple for millions of devotees. In response, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has refuted the claims, accusing the BJP of attempting to incite religious sentiments. JMM spokesperson Vinod Kumar Pandey stated that the government respects religious faith and is focused on improving facilities for devotees in the Dalma region, including road development, water supply, and healthcare. The JMM alleges the BJP is attempting to distract from real issues by politicizing the matter.