rahul-gandhi-seeks-justice-in-raebareli-dalit-murder-case

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Friday met with the grieving family of Hariom Valmiki, a Dalit man who was allegedly beaten to death by a mob in Uttar Pradesh's Raebareli district. 

The Congress MP's visit to the family's home in Fatehpur village highlighted the ongoing tensions surrounding the brutal incident, where Hariom was mistaken for a thief and killed in a shocking act of mob violence captured on video. 

Gandhi accused the state government of victimising the survivors by confining them to their house and denying them basic rights, vowing the Congress party's full support in their fight for justice.

During his hour-long interaction with the family, Rahul Gandhi listened intently to their ordeal and expressed deep dismay at the treatment they were receiving from the authorities. Speaking to reporters outside the modest Valmiki household, he alleged that the family was being "treated like criminals" despite being the victims of a heinous crime. 

 

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"The family did not commit the crime. A crime has been committed against them, and it seems as if they are the criminals. They are not being allowed to go out of their house. They are being threatened. All they are asking for is justice. Our son had been killed. The murder is recorded on video. We are asking for justice... There is a girl in there who needs to be operated on, but she is unable to get it done because the government has locked them in," Rahul Gandhi told reporters after meeting the family in Fatehpur.

Gandhi specifically pointed out that one family member—a young girl—urgently requires surgical treatment but has been unable to access medical care due to the heavy police presence that has effectively "locked" them inside their home. This revelation drew sharp criticism from the Congress leader, who questioned the Uttar Pradesh government's priorities in protecting vulnerable Dalit families amid rising atrocities.

Strong appeal to UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath

Rahul Gandhi directly addressed Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, urging him to "serve justice" and show respect to the bereaved family. "Atrocities, murders and rapes are being committed against Dalits in the entire nation. I want to ask the CM they serve justice. They (family) should be respected. 

"Action should be taken against the perpetrators, and they should not be protected," he said emphatically.

 

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The Raebareli MP, representing the same constituency where the tragedy unfolded, painted a broader picture of systemic failures, emphasising that such incidents of violence against Dalits are not isolated but part of a nationwide pattern. His words resonated deeply with local supporters who gathered outside, holding placards demanding justice for Hariom Valmiki.

Congress party's unwavering commitment to the family

Reaffirming the Congress party's solidarity, Rahul Gandhi extended comprehensive support to the Valmiki family and assured them of relentless assistance. "I met the deceased's family and listened to them. 

Congress Party and I will try our best to provide all possible help to the family... Wherever there will be atrocities against Dalits in the country, Congress will be there, and we will provide all possible help and fight for justice," he declared.

This pledge underscores the Congress's renewed focus on Dalit rights and social justice under Gandhi's leadership, positioning the party as a bulwark against what he described as state-sponsored injustice. Party workers have already begun coordinating legal aid, medical support, and public awareness campaigns to amplify the family's voice at both state and national levels.

 

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The tragic incident and swift police actions

Hariom Valmiki, a 35-year-old daily wage labourer from Fatehpur village, was allegedly beaten to death by a group of over a dozen villagers on October 14. According to police reports, the mob mistook him for a thief while he was returning home late at night from work. The entire assault was recorded on a mobile phone video that has since gone viral, showing the victim being pummelled with sticks and fists before succumbing to his injuries at a local hospital.

In response to public outrage and the video evidence, Uttar Pradesh Police acted decisively. The Unchahar police station chief, Sanjay Kumar, was removed from his post for alleged negligence. Additionally, five other officials were suspended for failing to prevent the lynching or respond promptly. 

More than 10 individuals directly linked to the mob violence have been arrested, with further interrogations underway to identify any additional accomplices. A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered under sections for murder, rioting, and promoting enmity, ensuring a thorough investigation.

 

Also Read: Panel seeks justice in Dalit boy’s suicide case

Broader implications for dalit safety in UP

The incident has reignited debates on mob lynching and caste-based violence in Uttar Pradesh, where Dalit communities continue to face disproportionate threats. Activists and opposition leaders, including Gandhi, have called for a special fast-track court to expedite the trial and prevent witness intimidation. The Valmiki family's confinement, as alleged by Gandhi, has also prompted questions about police overreach, with demands for an independent probe into the post-incident handling.

As Rahul Gandhi departed Raebareli, he left behind a message of hope for the family, promising that their struggle would not be in vain. With the Congress mobilising nationwide support, this case could become a pivotal flashpoint in the battle against atrocities on marginalised communities, keeping the spotlight on Yogi Adityanath's administration to deliver swift and fair justice.

 

Also Read: ASI suspended over Dalit boy's death probe