Rahul Gandhi Condemns Caste-Based Atrocity in Odisha, Calls It an Attack on Constitution and Humanity
New Delhi, June 24, 2025 — Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament Rahul Gandhi has fiercely criticized a disturbing incident in Odisha where two Dalit youths were reportedly subjected to degrading and inhumane treatment. The incident, which allegedly involved the victims being forced to crawl on their knees, eat grass, and drink dirty water, has sparked outrage and renewed focus on caste-based violence in India.
Terming the act as “barbaric and deeply rooted in caste oppression,” Gandhi condemned the treatment of the Dalit youths, asserting that such incidents are not isolated but part of a growing trend of caste-related atrocities in states governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He linked the cruelty to what he described as a “Manuwadi mindset” that thrives on discrimination and inequality.
Taking to the social media platform X, Gandhi wrote, “Making Dalit youths in Odisha crawl, eat grass, and drink filthy water is not just inhumane—it is a brutal reflection of a regressive ideology. This is a stark reminder that caste oppression is still a harsh reality.”
Gandhi further emphasized that attacks on the dignity of Dalits are not just social crimes but also violations of the very essence of India’s Constitution. “Every such act is an assault on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision of justice and equality,” he said, calling these events a “conspiracy against the values enshrined in our Constitution.”
He demanded immediate legal action against those responsible, insisting that the perpetrators be arrested without delay and punished according to the law. Rahul Gandhi also criticized the ruling party, alleging that the recurrence of such incidents in BJP-led states stems from an ideology that fosters social hierarchy and hatred.
“These repeated crimes against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are not accidental. They are the outcomes of a mindset that refuses to see all citizens as equals,” Gandhi stated.
The Congress leader’s strong reaction adds to the growing demand for justice and accountability in caste-based violence cases. His statement also underscores the need for urgent reforms and vigilant enforcement of constitutional safeguards to protect marginalized communities.
As political and civil rights groups raise their voices, this case once again brings the issue of caste discrimination to the forefront of national debate—prompting reflection on the challenges that still remain in ensuring dignity, equality, and justice for all.
