Asif Iqbal Naik
Jammu | October 10, 2025:
Adv. Harris Ali, State Joint Secretary of the Indian Youth Congress (IYC), led a powerful awareness drive across multiple areas of Jammu City, standing in solidarity with the Dalit community in the wake of the brutal lynching of a Dalit youth in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh — an incident that has deeply shaken the conscience of the nation and challenged the very spirit of our democratic values.
According to reports, 38-year-old Hariom Valmiki, a Dalit resident of Raebareli district, was beaten to death by a mob after being mistaken for a thief during local night vigils amid rumors of “drone-aided thefts.” The horrific incident occurred near Jamunapur crossing in the Unchahar area, where villagers detained and brutally assaulted him with sticks and belts. He later succumbed to his injuries, and his body was found near the Ishwardaspur railway track the next morning.
Disturbing videos circulating on social media showed the mob mercilessly thrashing the victim, with some attackers allegedly linking his name to political affiliations. The case has since become a major political flashpoint, triggering widespread outrage. So far, five accused—identified as Vaibhav Singh, Vipin Kumar, Vijay Maurya, Suresh Kumar, and Sahdev—have been arrested, while three police officials, including a sub-inspector and two constables, have been suspended for negligence. The FIR has been upgraded to a murder case, and further investigations are ongoing.
Condemning this brutal act, Adv. Harris Ali said that such crimes reflect the growing intolerance and erosion of constitutional values in society. “The lynching of Hariom Valmiki is not just an attack on one man but on the idea of equality and justice that our Constitution stands for,” he stated.
The awareness drive aimed to awaken public conscience and mobilize citizens to stand against caste-based discrimination and mob violence. The movement also paid heartfelt tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, whose vision of equality and social justice continues to guide the nation’s moral compass.
Reaffirming its stance, the Indian Youth Congress pledged to remain fearless, united, and vigilant in the fight against oppression, and to serve as the true voice and strength of the marginalized and voiceless.
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the Dalit community and every marginalized voice in this country,” said Adv. Harris Ali.
