I unequivocally condemn the disgraceful and reprehensible act of conducting a so-called ‘shuddhikaran’ at the venue of AICC President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge avaru’s public meeting in Haldwani, Uttarakhand. This is not merely an insult to one individual, it is a direct assault on the values enshrined in our Constitution and an ugly reminder of the caste prejudices that have no place in modern India. Shri Mallikarjun Kharge avaru is one of the country’s most respected statesmen, a lifelong public servant, and a leader who has dedicated decades to strengthening our democratic institutions. The vile suggestion that a public space requires “purification” because it was addressed by a Dalit leader is an act of unambiguous caste discrimination. It demeans not only Shri @kharge but every Indian who believes in equality, fraternity, and human dignity. Untouchability is not a matter of opinion, it is a constitutional crime and a moral disgrace. Those who seek to legitimise such regressive practices are not preserving tradition; they are attacking the very foundations of the Republic envisioned by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the makers of our Constitution. India cannot and must not tolerate the revival of such medieval prejudices in public life. Every citizen, irrespective of caste, is entitled to equal dignity and equal respect. Any attempt to normalise or justify such acts must be rejected unequivocally. I stand firmly with Shri Mallikarjun Kharge avaru and call upon all democratic forces to speak out against this shameful display of caste hatred. Silence in the face of such discrimination only emboldens those who seek to divide our society. We must reaffirm our unwavering commitment to an India founded on equality, justice, and the constitutional promise of dignity for all.