Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a prominent Congress figure, has made severe allegations against the BJP and RSS regarding an alleged purification ritual conducted in Haldwani, Uttarakhand. This incident followed a rally led by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on August 8. Gandhi described the ritual as “another name for untouchability” and called for legal action under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) Act.

During a press conference at Indira Bhavan in Delhi, Gandhi stated that the incident reveals the prevailing mindset of the BJP-RSS towards Dalits. He accused the ruling party of failing to respond to an act he termed as criminal. The Congress leader insisted that such practices should have consequences and demanded immediate registration of an FIR against those responsible for the alleged ritual.

The controversy has its roots in the Shri Ram Sena’s purported ceremony held at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground. Uttarakhand Congress chief Ganesh Godiyal claimed the ritual took place specifically because Kharge is a Dalit. He urged law enforcement to investigate any potential legal violations connected to this event.

Discrimination Against Dalits Highlighted

Gandhi emphasised that the controversy surrounding Kharge was reflective of broader discrimination against Dalits across India. He stated that the practice of purification effectively reintroduces untouchability, which the country’s judiciary has already outlawed. “Untouchability is not a thing of the past; it’s practiced openly,” he asserted, implying that such actions perpetuate societal divides.

The Congress leader expressed concerns about the implications of such discrimination, particularly for younger generations. He pointed out that if a senior leader like Kharge could face such treatment, it raises alarming questions about the treatment of Dalit children. “What might befall a four-year-old in school?” he queried rhetorically.

Gandhi cited instances where Dalit children were reportedly forced to engage in menial tasks in educational settings, such as cleaning toilets or sweeping floors. He further claimed discrimination extends to public facilities, noting that in certain areas, Dalits receive disposable cups while others are given reusable glassware at tea stalls.

Call for Justice and Action Against BJP Leaders

Framing the situation as part of a larger ideological struggle in India, Gandhi portrayed it as a conflict between the principles enshrined in the Constitution and the beliefs espoused by the BJP and RSS. He asserted the responsibility of both the central and state governments to ensure justice for Kharge.

The Congress leader reiterated his demand, stating, “We require justice for the Congress president. It is the duty of the state and central governments to ensure that Kharge receives appropriate justice.” He acknowledged that the Congress party would continue its efforts regarding the matter, irrespective of any inaction from the BJP government.

In his remarks, Gandhi cautioned that the party would react if the centre initiates no legal action. He articulated that any failure to address the issue would not go unanswered. The LoP also bashed PM Modi for his silence on this pressing matter, which, according to Gandhi, reflects a concerning ideological stance.

Earlier, Kharge had taken up the issue in the Rajya Sabha, requesting legal measures against those involved in the alleged purification ritual. In response, Union Minister JP Nadda clarified that the BJP does not support such actions. Nadda also assured that the party would investigate the incident thoroughly.

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