In a deeply concerning incident in Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh, a 38-year-old Dalit man named Hariom was tragically lynched to death. The police have attributed the violence to widespread panic fueled by rumors of individuals using drones to mark houses for theft.
However, this narrative has been challenged by Congress leaders, including spokesperson Shama Mohamed. Citing a viral video of the incident, Mohamed claimed that the mob responsible for the brutal act comprised supporters of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. She stated on X, “When he repeatedly said ‘Rahul Gandhi’, those criminals claimed they were supporters of Yogi.” Mohamed further criticized both the state and central governments, asserting that “no one is safe under the BJP government.”
The viral video clip shows Hariom, reportedly from Fatehpur and described as mentally unstable, being beaten by a group of men. In the distressing footage, Hariom can be heard uttering words, including the name “Rahul Gandhi.” The attackers are heard laughing and continuing their assault, with one remarking in Hindi that “everyone here is with Baba,” which the Congress interprets as a reference to Yogi Adityanath.
Arrests Made in Rae Bareli Lynching Case
In response to the incident, police have arrested five individuals from Rae Bareli in connection with the lynching of Hariom. According to the police, Hariom was mistaken for a member of a theft gang marking houses with drones.
The Rae Bareli superintendent of police, Dr. Yashveer Singh, confirmed the arrests and noted that the Station House Officer of Unchahar, Sanjay Kumar, had been transferred due to negligence, as the local police were reportedly aware of the circulating rumors.
The incident highlights the dangerous spread of rumors and their potential to incite deadly violence.