Kharge alleges ‘purification’ ritual post speech

A contentious incident unfolded in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday when Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge accused Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) followers of conducting a 'Shuddhikaran' (purification) ritual at a public meeting stage in Haldwani, Uttarakhand. Kharge, who is also the Congress president, had addressed a rally at Ramlila Maidan in Haldwani on August 8, part of the party’s preparations for the 2027 Uttarakhand Assembly election.

During his speech, Kharge claimed that thousands attended and he did not single out any community or religion.

In the House on the final day of the Monsoon Session, Kharge alleged that the BJP performed a havan and a purification ritual at the stage following his speech. He emphasized that he never sought help by stating his caste or Dalit identity and fought without such pleas. Kharge questioned the government, asking, "Is this the way things should happen in a democracy?

How are you protecting the Constitution?" He subsequently demanded the registration of cases under the Untouchability Act against those responsible, urging their arrest and imprisonment.

NDA, India bloc MPs countered Kharge's claims, condemning the alleged incident and affirming that the BJP does not condone such acts. Union Minister JP Nadda assured that the matter would be investigated. However, Kharge reiterated his demand for a thorough investigation and punishment for those involved, emphasizing that untouchability has no place in a democratic society.

Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan also condemned the incident, reiterating that untouchability must be rejected regardless of political affiliation or ideology, stating that there is no need for any further purification.