KATHMANDU: Shram Sanskriti Party Chair Harka Raj Sampang has condemned the alleged mistreatment of his supporters following tensions at the Janaki Temple premises in Janakpurdham on Tuesday.
In a social media post, Sampang said he had not reached the temple gate and had turned back before entering the premises. However, he said the alleged insult directed at his supporters was equivalent to an insult against him.
“I was on my way and had not reached the temple gate. But insulting those who support me is the same as insulting me,” he wrote.
Sampang also expressed respect for all deities and thanked those who had insulted him, saying he accepted such treatment without resentment.
He claimed that his supporters were mistreated at the temple premises, preventing him from offering prayers.
“Perhaps one day Goddess Janaki will grant me the opportunity for darshan. I remain hopeful,” he wrote.
Sampang also accused some groups of attempting to politicize the issue of cow protection, questioning the basis for opposing his temple visit.
Earlier on Tuesday, tensions erupted at the Janaki Temple after members of the Hindu Samrat Sena confronted leaders and supporters of the Shram Sanskriti Party who had gathered to welcome Sampang.
Sampang had arrived in Janakpur to attend his party’s general assembly and a membership induction program. The dispute occurred while preparations were underway for his visit to the temple.
The Hindu Samrat Sena had opposed Sampang’s visit, alleging that he had previously made controversial remarks about cows, and warned that he would not be allowed to enter the temple.
Following the incident, Sampang claimed he was unable to contact the home minister because the minister’s phone was switched off. He urged his party leaders and supporters to remain calm. The confrontation created tension around the Janaki Temple area for some time.
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