We, the undersigned citizens, strongly condemn the reported “shuddhikaran” (purification) ritual conducted at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground following the public rally addressed by Shri Mallikarjun Kharge on 10 August 2026.

Public spaces belong to everyone, and no person, community, leader, or political gathering should be treated as impure because of caste, identity, or association. Such practices are deeply regressive, reinforce the stigma of untouchability, and undermine the constitutional values of equality, dignity, and fraternity. We urge the Uttarakhand government and local authorities to conduct an impartial inquiry, take appropriate action, and ensure that public spaces remain free from caste-based discrimination.

Let Haldwani stand for constitutional values, mutual respect, and an India where no one is considered impure because of who they are.