‘We didn’t even know Mallikarjun Kharge ji’s caste’: Newly formed ‘Ram Sena’ whitewashes ‘Shuddhi Yagya’

The Shri Ram Sena Dharmarth Seva Nyas, a newly formed organization based in Haldwani, recently carried out a "shuddhikaran" (purification) ritual at the Ramlila Maidan following Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's rally in the town. This is despite the Nyas claiming they did not know Kharge's caste and did not wish to associate with any political party.

The organization, registered only since early 2026, describes itself as a voluntary group with around seven registered members, eleven active workers, and approximately forty-five volunteers. Its primary activities include running a 'cow ambulance' and funding the education of five to ten students each year. Secretary Ramjee Awasthi says the Nyas is not affiliated with any political party and their main objective is to work towards Hindu interests.

The Nyas is led by Girish Pandey, who says he has no direct responsibility to any political party or organisation and only aspires to do good for society. The youngest office-bearer is Vijay Fartiyal, a 25-year-old B.Com graduate who joined the Nyas after meeting its president. The organization's focus on purifying the Ramlila Maidan began with a WhatsApp message alleging that Kharge's rally had hurt Hindu sentiments and violated the sanctity of the place.