New Delhi, Oct 7 (NationPress) The Congress party has vehemently denounced the brutal lynching of a Dalit youth in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, labeling it a stain on the nation and raising a serious question about the collective morality of Indian society.

The victim, known as Hariom, was reportedly beaten to death with sticks and belts by a group of locals who mistook him for a thief. This incident has ignited widespread outrage and political turmoil throughout the state.

Authorities have arrested five individuals in relation to this disturbing case.

In a joint statement from Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, the party emphasized, 'Our nation is governed by a Constitution that recognizes every individual as equal. There is legislation that ensures equal rights to the safety, rights, and expression of all citizens. The tragedy in Raebareli is a serious violation of our Constitution, a crime against the Dalit community, and a disgrace to our society.'

The party highlighted that the frequency of crimes targeting Dalits, minorities, and the underprivileged has 'skyrocketed', asserting that 'this violence disproportionately impacts those who are marginalized and lack adequate representation.'

Referencing previous incidents, the Congress stated, 'Whether it be the atrocities against women in Hathras and Unnao, the murder of Hariom in Raebareli, or earlier tragedies such as the institutional murder of Rohith Vemula, the dehumanizing incident involving a leader urinating on a tribal youth in Madhya Pradesh, or the brutal assaults on Dalits in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh, each case reflects the escalating insensitivity of our society, administration, and governing bodies.'

The statement also pointed out that since 2014, incidents of mob lynching, unjust demolitions, and mob lawlessness have become alarming characteristics of our era.

'Violence should never define a civilized society, and what transpired with Hariom poses a significant question about our collective morality,' it further stated.

Reiterating the values of justice and equality, the Congress remarked, 'The India envisioned by Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi’s 'Vaishnav Jan...' is one of social justice, equality, and compassion, where such crimes have no place. Humanity must guide our path forward.'

The party reaffirmed its dedication to the empowerment of marginalized communities, calling on citizens to unite against the rising tide of injustice.

'We urge citizens to stand together against this injustice. Our struggle must persist until the rights and dignity of every Indian are fully safeguarded,' the statement concluded.