Rahul Gandhi criticizes BJP and RSS over Dalit discrimination

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi held a press conference in Delhi to criticize the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), alleging ongoing atrocities and discrimination against Dalits.

Gandhi framed the current political climate as a battle between two ideologies: one represented by the Constitution and leaders like B.R. Ambedkar, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel, and the other represented by the BJP and RSS. He highlighted several instances of social exclusion and caste-based discrimination, including Dalit children being forced to clean toilets in schools, restrictions on using village wells, and the use of different types of cups at tea stalls.

Additionally, Gandhi referenced a ‘purification’ ritual controversy involving Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and cited instances where Dalit grooms were prevented from riding horses. He called for action under the SC/ST Act to address these systemic issues.