Rahul Gandhi Condemns Brutal Treatment of Dalit Youths in Odisha: A Call for Justice
Rahul Gandhi Speaks Out Against Inhumane Treatment
New Delhi/Berhampur: Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a prominent Congress figure, has expressed his outrage regarding the cruel treatment inflicted on two Dalit youths in the Dharakote region of Ganjam district, who were suspected of cattle smuggling.
On Monday, Gandhi called for the swift arrest of those responsible for this heinous act and demanded strict penalties.
He stated, "Forcing two Dalit youths in Odisha to crawl on their knees, consume grass, and drink contaminated water is not only inhumane but also reflects the barbaric mindset of Manuwadi ideology. This incident serves as a stark reminder for those who claim that caste issues are a thing of the past," in a post shared on X.
Gandhi further emphasized that the torture faced by these Dalit youths represents an assault on the Constitution crafted by B.R. Ambedkar. He remarked, "Every incident that undermines the dignity of Dalits is an affront to Baba Saheb's Constitution and a conspiracy against equality, justice, and humanity. Such occurrences are increasingly prevalent in BJP-governed states, where politics thrives on hatred and discrimination."
He also pointed out a disturbing rise in atrocities against Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women in Odisha recently. "The perpetrators must be apprehended immediately and face severe consequences. Our nation will be governed by the Constitution, not Manusmriti," he asserted.
Reports indicate that the two victims from Singipur village were transporting three cows from Haripur to their home as part of a dowry arrangement for their daughter's wedding when they were stopped by individuals in Kharigumma village. The assailants accused them of cattle smuggling and demanded a bribe of Rs 30,000. When the victims refused to comply, they were assaulted and subjected to torture.
As of now, police have detained nine individuals suspected of involvement in this case.