On April 6, 2025, Bihar's Sports Minister and BJP MLA from Bachhwara, Surendra Mehta, distributed blankets to villagers in Ahiyaapur, Begusarai, as part of BJP’s 45th foundation day celebrations. With temperatures nearing 40°C, the gesture—intended as a mark of respect—sparked a wave of online backlash and memes. Watch the report for full details.
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00:00This is Bihar's sports minister and BJP MLA from Bacchwara, Surendra Mehta, seen distributing blankets to a large crowd in peak summer with temperatures nearing 40 degrees Celsius.
00:10The event, held on 6 April 2025 in the Ayyapur village of Begu Sarai district, was a part of the BJP's 45th Foundation Day celebrations.
00:20Addressing the gathering from a decorated stage, Mehta handed over the blankets to the villagers.
00:24Despite the heat, the event drew a sizable crowd, with men and women queuing up to receive their share of what the minister described as Ang Vastra or a token of respect.
00:36But once the photos and videos went viral, reactions poured in online.
00:41Many found the gesture very ironic, questioning its timing and ongoing heatwave conditions.
00:46Many users also questioned the practicality of distributing blankets at a time when most regions in Bihar are grappling with heatwave conditions.
00:54It's only early April. North India is on the verge of an extreme heatwave.
00:59The Indian Meteorological Department had issued warnings of extreme temperatures across several northern states.
01:05Meanwhile in Bihar, the gesture meant as a symbolic honour became the subject of memes, sarcastic commentary and political criticism.
01:13The minister was yet to respond to the criticism till 9 April 2025.