Congress chief Kharge demands justice, Rahul Gandhi calls for FIR

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has demanded that an FIR be filed under SC/ST laws regarding a purification ritual performed at a public ground in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani. The ritual came after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge addressed a rally on August 8, 2026.

Gandhi called the incident a “crime” and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure an FIR is registered. He criticized the BJP-RSS for practicing untouchability, which he said is banned by the Constitution.

During a press conference in New Delhi, Gandhi highlighted that the ritual was carried out two days after Kharge’s rally. He also referenced Uttarakhand BJP president Mahendra Bhatt defending the act, stating the site was “polluted with slogans.”

Gandhi emphasized that justice must be served to Kharge and criticized the mindset behind the incident. He compared the treatment of a senior leader like Kharge to potential harm against vulnerable individuals, such as a child in a school.

Union Minister J.P. Nadda had previously condemned the incident during Parliament’s Monsoon Session, promising an investigation.

When asked about internal party matters, Gandhi clarified that Kharge faced some opposition but received support from many, including himself. He redirected questions about Sonia Gandhi’s memoir, stating it was irrelevant to the main issue at hand.

Gandhi reiterated that the primary concern remains ensuring justice for Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.