In Brief
- FIR registered against Rahul Gandhi over alleged casteist remarks in Uttarakhand.
- The remarks were made during an event in Haldwani, sparking controversy.
- The case highlights ongoing sensitivity around caste issues in Indian politics.
- Authorities are investigating the matter as public debate intensifies.
An FIR has been registered against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at the Haldwani Kotwali Police Station in Uttarakhand following a complaint over his public remarks concerning a "purification" ritual.
The dispute stems from an event at Haldwani's Ramlila Ground, where a local trust performed a cleanliness drive and havan following a political rally addressed by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. During an August 29 press conference in New Delhi, Rahul Gandhi termed the ritual an act of "untouchability" and anti-Dalit discrimination.
The FIR was lodged by a member of the Valmiki (Scheduled Caste) community, who alleged that members of the SC community participated in the drive and that Gandhi's statements falsely portrayed them as perpetrators of caste discrimination, thereby hurting community sentiments and promoting social enmity.
The case has been booked under relevant sections of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Police officials confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway to evaluate the evidence and determine further action.
