The death of a Dalit minor boy in Rohru, Shimla district, has triggered widespread anger across Himachal Pradesh. The boy reportedly died by suicide after facing caste-based discrimination. On Monday, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM), Dalit rights groups and local residents staged a protest in Shimla seeking justice and strict action against those responsible.
Protesters carried placards and raised slogans against caste discrimination and what they called the system’s failure to protect vulnerable communities.
Leading the protest, CPIM leaders Rakesh Singha, former MLA, and Sanjay Chauhan said it was “deeply shameful and unfortunate” that such incidents are still happening even after 78 years of independence.
“It is a matter of great concern that even today, in an independent India, caste-based discrimination is forcing innocent lives into despair,” said Rakesh Singha. He added that “The Rohru incident is not just an individual tragedy it reflects a serious social illness that our society must confront.”
The CPIM stated that the minor was repeatedly humiliated because of his caste, which allegedly drove him to take his life. The party also said instead of seeking justice, some people were spreading false claims about the boy, accusing him of being a thief.
“Some people are now trying to justify this horrific act by claiming the boy was a habitual thief. But the police have confirmed that no FIR or record exists regarding any such allegation. This is a cruel attempt to divert attention from the real issue of caste-based oppression,” said Singha.
He demanded that a case be registered under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and that the victim’s family get swift and fair justice.
"We demand strict action under the SC/ST Act. Justice delayed is justice denied. The administration must show that the Constitution's promise of equality is not just words on paper,” he added.
The party also linked this case to another recent incident in Kullu, where a Scheduled Caste officer was allegedly assaulted during Dussehra celebrations. CPIM said such incidents show that caste intolerance is rising in the state.
During the protest, leaders stressed that the Constitution guarantees equality and dignity to every citizen, yet caste-based discrimination still continues. “Our Constitution gives every Indian the right to equality. It is shameful that even in 2025, we are witnessing such incidents. The government must act decisively to uphold constitutional values,” said Sanjay Chauhan.
The CPIM has announced that it will continue its campaign until the victim’s family gets justice and the guilty are punished under the law.
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