Congress Condemns Murder of Dalit Man in Raebareli as ‘Blot on Nation’

The Congress Party on Tuesday denounced the killing of 38-year-old Hariom Valmiki, a Dalit man, in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, calling it a “heinous and cruel crime” and a “blot on society and the nation.”

In a joint statement, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi described the murder as a grave violation of the Constitution and human rights, highlighting growing violence against Dalits, minorities, and marginalized communities across India. They cited past incidents, including crimes in Hathras, Unnao, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh, as evidence of systemic law-and-order failures.

Rahul Gandhi wrote on X, “This is not just the murder of one person but the murder of humanity, the Constitution, and justice… India’s future rests on equality and humanity, and this country will be governed by the Constitution, not the whims of the mob.”

Kharge and Rahul further noted that mob lynching and extrajudicial actions have become hallmarks of recent years, asserting that the India envisioned by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi is one of social justice and equality. The party reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of marginalized communities.

Incident Details: Hariom Valmiki was attacked by villagers on Wednesday night near Jamunapur crossing in Unchahar town while walking to his in-laws’ house. Villagers suspected him of theft amid rumors of drones being used to mark houses. Five people have been arrested, and three police personnel were suspended for alleged negligence. Police have urged residents not to spread caste-based rumors about the case.

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai visited Hariom’s family, claiming the victim was beaten after mentioning Rahul Gandhi’s name. Rahul Gandhi personally spoke to Hariom’s brother to assure support.