Why Did Rahul Gandhi Slam BJP Over the Murder of a Dalit Youth in MP's Chhatarpur?

Synopsis
In a shocking incident in Chhatarpur, MP, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has taken a stand against the BJP-led state government following the tragic murder of a 19-year-old Dalit youth. The escalating tensions at a ration distribution center raise crucial questions about justice and rights for marginalized communities.
Key Takeaways
- Pankaj Prajapati was shot during a scuffle at a ration center.
- The incident has raised serious questions about Dalit rights.
- Rahul Gandhi's criticism targets the BJP government for systemic discrimination.
- The police investigation is ongoing, with three individuals booked.
- Immediate justice and accountability are being demanded.
Chhatarpur (Madhya Pradesh), June 9 (NationPress) Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi criticized the BJP-led state administration regarding the alleged murder of a 19-year-old Dalit youth in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh.
The youth, identified as Pankaj Prajapati, was shot during a confrontation at a government-run ration distribution center in Bilhari village, located about 350 km from Bhopal, on Sunday.
According to reports, Pankaj arrived at the distribution center for ration collection and became embroiled in a dispute with salesman Ramsevak Arjaria.
The situation escalated, drawing in multiple individuals from both sides.
During the scuffle, Pankaj was shot and subsequently collapsed.
Although he was rushed to a nearby hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The identity of the shooter remains unclear, as the police investigation is ongoing.
However, three individuals have been charged, including a local BJP worker, Praveen Pateria, his brother Naveen Pateria, and salesman Ramsevak Arjaria.
They face charges under Sections 115 (2), 109 (1), and 296 (5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
In response to the incident, Rahul Gandhi stated that Pankaj Prajapati was killed in broad daylight due to his Dalit identity and called for justice.
On social media platform X, he remarked, "An FIR was not registered, and the post-mortem was delayed because the accused is affiliated with the BJP."
Rahul Gandhi also aimed his criticism at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking 11 years of his rule.
He stated, "The past eleven years under PM Modi have been marred by humiliation, violence, and discrimination against Dalits, Adivasis, Backward Classes, and minorities."
He demanded immediate arrest and punishment for the accused.
"I stand in solidarity with Prajapati’s family and all Bahujans across the nation. This is a struggle for respect, justice, and equality, and we will prevail," he wrote on X.