The alleged lynching of a Dalit youth in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, has prompted strong reactions and political repercussions. The incident, in which the victim was reportedly killed on suspicion of being a drone thief, has drawn criticism from the Congress party against the state government. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate shared on social media that Rahul Gandhi, the Member of Parliament for Raebareli, has communicated with the bereaved family. Shrinate stated that Rahul Gandhi had spoken with the father and brother of the deceased, offering his condolences and assuring them of his support in their fight for justice. She further emphasized that such violence against Dalits is unacceptable. Pawan Khera took to X to express his outrage over the killing, calling it both heartbreaking and infuriating. He noted the victim’s final thoughts were with Rahul Gandhi, who represents the region. Rahul Gandhi has since contacted the victim’s family, offering his solidarity and expressing concern about the increasing prevalence of lynching, vowing to ensure legal action against the perpetrators. Police have arrested five individuals. Authorities have reported that the victim, identified as Hariom Dandepur, was allegedly attacked by a mob while he was on his way to his in-laws’ house. The mob reportedly believed he was involved in using drones to target homes for theft. Raebareli’s SP, Yashveer Singh, has confirmed the arrests and the transfer of the local SHO. Singh also acknowledged that local police were aware of the rumors circulating in the area. The incident follows the arrest of two individuals, Mohammad Junaid and Mohammad Ovais, for flying a drone without permission in the vicinity of the PAC colony.
