Rae Bareli: A Dalit man named Ram Prasad was lynched by a mob in Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh, in an incident that has reignited debate over caste-based violence in the state. The mob reportedly shouted “Ye Baba ka raj hai” during the attack, a phrase widely understood as a reference to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
According to local reports, the assault began after a minor dispute and quickly turned violent. Witnesses said upper-caste men beat Ram Prasad mercilessly until he collapsed. He died on the spot before help could arrive. The attackers fled the scene as villagers gathered.
Police have registered an FIR and detained a few suspects, but Dalit rights activists expressed concern that the investigation would be slow and biased. They pointed to a pattern of inadequate justice in cases involving violence against marginalized communities.
Civil society groups have condemned the killing, describing it as part of a growing climate of caste hatred and political impunity. They argue that public references to “Baba’s rule” during such acts indicate a sense of protection under the current administration.
Ram Prasad was a daily wage laborer and the sole breadwinner for his family. His death has left them in financial distress. Local residents and activists are demanding strong legal action and protection for Dalit families in the area.
