Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a strong critique against Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, urging him to file an FIR against those responsible for the ‘purification’ of Haldwani’s Ramlila Maidan following a rally addressed by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge. Gandhi equated the actions taken in Haldwani to ‘untouchability’, highlighting that Dalits across the nation continue to face such discrimination.
““There are two ideologies fighting in the country – the Constitution of India and that of the BJP-RSS. Whatever politics is happening in the country is between these two ideologies,” said Gandhi during a press conference at the Congress headquarters in Delhi.
He emphasized that for thousands of years, Dalits have endured violence in India, which is illegal under the Constitution. He pointed out various forms of discrimination faced by Dalits:
- Dalit children are made to clean toilets and sweep in schools.
- They are often denied access to drink water from wells.
- At tea stalls, there are separate cups for Dalits.
- During baraats, Dalits are forced to wear helmets while riding horses.
“This is the reality of UP, India, and North India. You can see it in cities and villages,” he remarked.
Context of the Controversy
Gandhi criticized the practice of ‘purification’ that occurs when Congress leaders visit temples, stating that it reflects a broader issue of discrimination. He cited the example of former Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, who also faced similar purification rituals.
