Congress Leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi Condemn Police Brutality After Workers' Deaths in Assam and Uttar Pradesh

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the BJP governments in Assam and Uttar Pradesh, alleging that democracy and the Constitution have been undermined. This statement followed the deaths of two Congress workers during protests, which were reportedly due to police actions. Gandhi expressed condolences to the families of Mridul Islam and Prabhat Pandey, who died in Guwahati and Lucknow, respectively.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also condemned the BJP, describing the deaths as deeply distressing. She accused the BJP of attacking Babasaheb Ambedkar's legacy in Parliament and violating his Constitution on the streets. "The death of youth Congress worker Prabhat Pandey ji of Gorakhpur is extremely heart-rending," she stated in a post on X.

Protests and Allegations

The Congress party organised nationwide protests supporting Babasaheb Ambedkar and the Constitution. During these protests, Mridul Islam died in Guwahati, allegedly due to tear gas exposure. Party spokesperson Bedabrat Bora claimed Islam felt suffocated when a tear gas canister landed near him. He was taken to a hospital but was declared dead.

In Lucknow, Prabhat Pandey died during a protest near the Uttar Pradesh Assembly. State Congress chief Ajay Rai alleged police brutality caused his death. "Today, while going to gherao the assembly, our young colleague Prabhat Pandey ji passed away due to police brutality," Rai posted on X.

Police Statements

A senior police officer in Assam stated that the cause of Islam's death would be confirmed after a post-mortem examination. The officer denied any injuries occurred during the protest. In Lucknow, DCP Central Raveena Tyagi reported that Pandey was brought to the hospital unconscious and declared dead upon arrival.

Doctors found no visible injuries on Pandey's body. A panel will conduct a post-mortem examination, which will be recorded for legal purposes. The police are awaiting results before proceeding with further actions.

Political Reactions

Rahul Gandhi reiterated that Congress will continue its fight for truth and constitutional values. He stated, "The lions of Congress will continue to fight for truth and the Constitution." Priyanka Gandhi compared the BJP's actions against Congress workers to those of British colonial rule.

The Congress party claimed several workers were injured during protests against issues like unrest in Manipur and allegations against the Adani Group. Assam Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah and former MP Ripun Bora were detained during a scuffle but later released.

The situation remains tense as both states await further investigations into these incidents. The Congress party continues its demonstrations, demanding justice for their deceased members and accountability from authorities.