Rahul Gandhi Demands FIR in Haldwani 'Purification' Row, Calls It Untouchability

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has escalated the political confrontation over the alleged 'purification' of a rally venue in Haldwani, Uttarakhand. He demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi order an FIR against those responsible for the act, which he equated with the practice of untouchability.

Speaking at a press conference at the Congress headquarters in Delhi, Gandhi asserted that the incident reflects a deeper ideological battle between the Constitution and the BJP-RSS worldview. He argued that Dalits across the country continue to face systemic discrimination, citing instances such as being made to clean toilets in schools, being barred from drawing water from common wells, and facing segregation at tea stalls.

The Congress leader specifically referenced the treatment of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, noting that similar 'purification' rituals have been reported when other Dalit leaders visit temples. He maintained that such actions constitute a crime under the Constitution and accused BJP-RSS workers of practising untouchability.

Gandhi framed his demand as a simple quest for justice for Kharge, stating that it is the duty of both the state and central governments to ensure it. He said the issue is not personal to Kharge but concerns every Dalit person, calling the Haldwani incident the 'tip of the iceberg'.

The controversy began after Uttarakhand BJP president Mahendra Bhatt defended the alleged 'purification' of the Ramlila Maidan following Kharge's rally. Gandhi vowed that the Congress would not let Bhatt "escape" the incident.

When asked about the silence of PM Modi and BSP chief Mayawati on the matter, Gandhi said his focus is on the illegality of the act, not on who chooses to comment on it. He also clarified that Kharge's disappointment was directed at a section of leaders, not the party as a whole, and confirmed he had spoken to Kharge about the issue.