Congress Leader Viral Video: Rahul Gandhi Visits Dalit Victim’s Family Despite Controversy

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited the family of Hari Om Valmiki in Rae Bareli on Friday, October 17, following a viral video controversy and ongoing outrage over the Dalit man’s lynching. The visit came despite the family’s earlier statement asking political leaders to refrain from visiting, adding a new layer of political tension to the already sensitive case.

Gandhi, accompanied by Amethi MP Kishori Lal Sharma, met the family at their home in Turab Ali ka Tola locality of Fatehpur. He spent nearly 30 minutes with them, assuring support and promising justice. “I met the deceased’s family and listened to them. The Congress Party and I will try our best to provide all possible help to the family. Wherever there will be atrocities against Dalits in the country, Congress will be there to provide support and fight for justice,” Gandhi said during the visit.

Rahul Gandhi’s Visit Amid Viral Video and Political Reactions

Hari Om Valmiki, a resident of Fatehpur district, was beaten to death by a mob in Rae Bareli’s Unchahar area on October 2 over alleged theft. Police have arrested 12 individuals so far in connection with the brutal killing. The case sparked widespread outrage, with Dalit rights groups demanding swift justice and stricter enforcement of laws protecting marginalized communities.

The visit gained national attention after a video released earlier on Friday showed Valmiki’s family requesting that no political leader, including Rahul Gandhi, visit them. In the clip, the family claimed they were satisfied with the state government’s actions so far and urged political parties not to “cash in on the tragedy.” The video quickly went viral on social media, fueling debate over political optics and family autonomy.

Despite the message, Gandhi proceeded with the visit, accusing the Uttar Pradesh administration of trying to intimidate the family and prevent him from meeting them. “Attempts were made to stop me from visiting, but I came here to stand by the family. No amount of pressure will stop us from fighting against injustice,” he said.

Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai also criticized the Yogi Adityanath government, accusing it of “oppression and injustice” and claiming that the Chief Minister took action only after Congress raised the issue. The state administration has not officially responded to the allegations.

Social and Political Impact of the Controversy

The incident underscores the deep political sensitivities surrounding caste violence in Uttar Pradesh, a state often seen as a barometer for national politics. Rahul Gandhi’s decision to visit the family despite their earlier video has sparked mixed reactions across political and social circles. Supporters praised the move as a show of solidarity, while critics accused the Congress leader of ignoring the family’s wishes for political gain.

The viral video also raised questions about whether the family’s statement was made under pressure — a claim echoed by Gandhi and Congress leaders. Activists argue that such incidents highlight the challenges Dalit families face in seeking justice while navigating political attention and state authority.

For the Congress Party, the visit aligns with its broader effort to position itself as a defender of Dalit rights ahead of key elections. Gandhi’s remarks signal the party’s intent to continue raising issues of caste-based violence and discrimination, aiming to regain lost ground among marginalized communities.

The Congress leader’s viral video visit has once again thrust the issue of Dalit atrocities and political accountability into the national spotlight. As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, the intersection of justice, politics, and social justice remains at the center of the conversation.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was the viral video involving the Congress leader about?

The viral video featured Hari Om Valmiki’s family asking politicians, including Rahul Gandhi, not to visit them, claiming satisfaction with the government’s actions.

Q2: Why did Rahul Gandhi visit despite the family’s message?

Rahul Gandhi accused the Uttar Pradesh administration of intimidation and said he wanted to stand with the family to ensure justice for the Dalit victim.

Q3: What happened to Hari Om Valmiki?

Hari Om Valmiki, a Dalit man from Fatehpur, was lynched by a mob in Rae Bareli on October 2 over alleged theft. Twelve people have been arrested so far.

Q4: What is the political significance of this visit?

The visit signals Congress’ intent to champion Dalit rights and positions the party against the ruling BJP in Uttar Pradesh ahead of key elections.

Q5: How has the Uttar Pradesh government responded?

The state government has not officially responded to Rahul Gandhi’s allegations but has been criticized by Congress for delayed action and alleged intimidation.