Rahul Gandhi has strongly condemned the suicide of IPS officer Y Puran Kumar, highlighting it as a severe issue affecting the dignity of the entire Dalit community. Speaking after meeting Kumar’s family in Chandigarh, Gandhi stated that the incident reflects years of systemic discrimination against a Dalit individual within the state’s police force, aimed at hindering his career. He directly challenged the BJP-led Haryana government and the central government, questioning the immense pressure that could lead a serving officer to such a tragic end. Gandhi urged Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to uphold his commitment to the state’s lower caste population and called for immediate action against those responsible for the alleged mistreatment of the late officer. He emphasized that this case transcends individual tragedy, sending a disheartening message to Dalits nationwide about the persistent vulnerability to injustice, regardless of success. Gandhi also expressed concern over the reported pressure faced by Kumar’s daughters and implored Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Haryana CM to honor their promises to the family, particularly regarding the funeral arrangements.
