Purification ritual at Haldwani rally site was an act of ‘untouchability’: Kharge
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has condemned the 'purification' of a rally site in Haldwani as an act of untouchability. He is seeking government action and criticizing the BJP for filing an FIR against Rahul Gandhi, framing the situation as a broader struggle for Dalit rights.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing political tensions in India regarding caste-based discrimination and the use of state machinery against opposition leaders.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday (September 3, 2026) claimed that the “purification” carried out at the site of his rally in Haldwani last month was an act of “untouchability” and said his party will approach Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan over the issue.
Speaking with reporters in New Delhi, Mr. Kharge also questioned the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah on the issue and said they remain silent when something bad happens.
He urged people to stand with Rahul Gandhi in his fight for the cause of Dalits, women and students.
Mr. Kharge urged people to raise their voice against such acts of purification and carry out movements peacefully.
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