New Delhi, 13 August (H.S.):

Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday raised the issue of an alleged ‘purification’ ceremony held at the Ramlila Maidan in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, following a speech by the Congress president. Describing the incident as a manifestation of untouchability, Kharge demanded that a case be registered against those responsible.

Kharge said the ground was allegedly subjected to a ‘purification’ ritual after his rally on August 8, describing the act as reflective of a mindset rooted in untouchability. He alleged that the BJP was involved in the incident and called for action against those responsible.

Responding to the allegations, Leader of the House J.P. Nadda said the BJP did not support any such activity. Condemning the incident, he said BJP national president Nitin Nabin would take the matter seriously.

Nadda said that strict action would be taken against anyone found responsible after the completion of an investigation. He also appealed to the Congress not to politicise the issue.

Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan also condemned the incident, stating that untouchability was unacceptable in any form. He said everyone was equal and that there was no need for anyone to be subjected to any form of ‘purification’.

Radhakrishnan called for a thorough investigation into the incident and said those found responsible should face appropriate punishment.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar