New Delhi: Senior Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi have strongly denounced the lynching of a Dalit man, Hariom Valmiki, in Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh, characterizing it as a "murder of humanity and the Constitution". The leaders jointly criticized the incident, alleging that it reflects a broader trend of rising violence against marginalized communities and a decline in the rule of law.
Hariom Valmiki, a 40-year-old Dalit man, was allegedly beaten to death by villagers on Wednesday night near Jamunapur crossing in Unchahar. The villagers suspected him of being a thief after rumors circulated about a gang using drones to scout homes for robbery. According to reports, Hariom was on his way to visit his wife and daughter when he was confronted and brutally attacked.
In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi stated that the murder of Hariom was not merely the killing of an individual but an assault on humanity, justice, and the Constitution. He further claimed that marginalized groups, including Dalits, Adivasis, Muslims, backward classes, and the poor, are increasingly targeted in India. Gandhi added that "hatred, violence, and mob rule now enjoy the patronage of power," and that "bulldozers have replaced the Constitution, and fear has taken the place of justice". He asserted that India's future hinges on equality and humanity, emphasizing that the country should be governed by the Constitution rather than the whims of a mob.
Mallikarjun Kharge echoed these sentiments, describing the murder as a "stain on our society" and noting the surge in violence against marginalized communities in recent years. Kharge and Gandhi issued a joint statement, asserting that "mob lynching, bulldozer justice, and mobocracy have become a horrifying hallmark of our times" since 2014. They argued that the incident represents a direct attack on the ideals of the Constitution and social justice.
The Congress leaders cited past incidents, such as the Hathras and Unnao cases, the Rohith Vemula suicide, the Pehlu Khan and Akhlaq lynchings, and assaults on Dalits in Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, as evidence of growing impunity and social decay. They urged citizens to unite against injustice and reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of marginalized communities, stating, "This fight must continue until every Indian's life and dignity are safeguarded".
Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai visited Hariom's family and alleged that the victim was beaten when he mentioned Rahul Gandhi's name. Rai criticized the state, claiming that "jungle raj" is prevailing. Rahul Gandhi also spoke with the victim's brother, assuring the family of his support.
Police have arrested five people in connection with the lynching and suspended three police personnel for alleged negligence. Authorities have appealed to residents not to spread caste-related rumors about the incident. Investigations are ongoing.
