The brutal killing of a Dalit man in Rajasthan's Jhunjhunu district, allegedly by a liquor mafia for refusing to purchase liquor from their outlet, has stirred significant political controversy in the state.
According to police reports, on May 14, a group of individuals forcefully abducted Rameshwar Valmiki while he was returning home and subjected him to a vicious assault, resulting in his death. The perpetrators hung him upside down and brutally beat him before abandoning his unconscious body outside his residence.
The incident has triggered outrage, particularly after a video of the assault circulated widely online. Leaders from various political parties have condemned the heinous act and engaged in a blame game over the handling of law and order issues in the state.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh targeted the ruling BJP government, alleging that Dalits are being persecuted wherever the BJP holds power. He criticized the government's failure to protect marginalized communities.
Former Chief Minister and Congress leader Ashok Gehlot accused the BJP of failing to address the rising crimes against Dalits, suggesting that such incidents have surged under the current government's tenure.
In response, the BJP attempted to deflect blame onto the previous Congress administration, claiming that the liquor mafia flourished during the Congress rule. They emphasized their commitment to cracking down on criminal activities, promising visible results soon.
Meanwhile, the police have taken swift action, arresting five suspects and detaining a minor in connection with the case. However, the incident has reignited debates about caste-based violence and the government's responsibility to ensure the safety of all citizens.
