New Delhi, Oct 17 (NationPress) In a dramatic turn of events, the Opposition leader in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, met with the grieving family of Dalit Hariom Valmiki, who was tragically murdered in Raebareli. During this visit, he extended his condolences and support amidst a backdrop of tension.

Initially, reports indicated that the family declined to meet with Gandhi, expressing satisfaction with the government's response. Additionally, posters were strategically placed along his route, asserting that the matter should not be politicized. In response, Congress members removed the posters, claiming that the family was coerced into their stance by government pressure.

Eventually, Hariom Valmiki's relatives met with Gandhi, surrounded by a heavy police presence.

Taking to the social media platform X, Gandhi stated, "The horrific killing of Hariom Valmiki has deeply disturbed the conscience of our nation. There was a profound question in the eyes of his family, filled with sorrow: Is being a Dalit considered a crime in our country? In Uttar Pradesh, the authorities are focused on intimidating the victim's family and even attempted to prevent their meeting with me. This reflects a systemic failure that continually shelters perpetrators while victimizing the innocent."

He further emphasized, "Justice cannot be confined. The BJP government must cease its pressure on the victim's family and ensure that the perpetrators face the harshest penalties. I stand resolutely with Hariom Valmiki's family and every marginalized citizen in our country. This struggle is not solely for Hariom, but for every voice that refuses to submit to injustice," he continued.

The Congress party echoed this sentiment through their X account.

Following his meeting with the family, Gandhi condemned the incident as a serious violation of the nation's Constitution, denouncing the underlying ideology as a disgrace to society. He asserted, "We will relentlessly oppose this injustice and oppression. This country must adhere to Baba Saheb’s Constitution, and reject Manuism."

The lynching of the Dalit youth in Raebareli has ignited widespread outrage and significant political tension. According to local police, five suspects have been arrested, while additional individuals are under scrutiny and may soon be apprehended.

This incident has sparked a political conflict, with the Congress accusing the Uttar Pradesh government of shielding the guilty. The government, however, has rejected these allegations, claiming prompt actions have been taken.

On October 7, the Congress party had already condemned the "brutal lynching" of the Dalit youth, labeling it a "stain" on the nation and raising serious questions about the collective morality of Indian society.

Hariom was reportedly killed by a group of locals who mistakenly believed he was a thief, beaten with sticks and belts.