Young Man Sets Himself on Fire Near Indian Parliament in Protest Against Dalit Discrimination

A shocking incident unfolded in New Delhi as a 26-year-old man, identified as Jitendra from Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat district, set himself on fire near the Indian Parliament. According to reports, the young man doused himself in a flammable substance and ignited his body before running toward the Parliament building. Security personnel, aided by local police and bystanders, intervened swiftly, extinguishing the flames and rushing him to the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital for urgent medical attention.

Partially Burnt Note Reveals Grievances

At the scene, authorities discovered a partially burnt two-page note believed to have been written by Jitendra. The note hinted at deep frustration and alleged mistreatment by the police. It specifically mentioned the systemic discrimination and humiliation faced by Dalits, India’s most marginalized community. This has drawn attention to the enduring plight of Dalits, who continue to face caste-based atrocities despite constitutional safeguards.

Past Legal Troubles Added to Distress

New Delhi’s Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Devesh Mahla, stated that Jitendra had been troubled by a legal case filed against him in 2021 in Baghpat. While details of the case remain unclear, it appears to have contributed significantly to his mental distress, pushing him to this desperate act.

Eyewitness Accounts and Emergency Response

Witnesses reported seeing Jitendra engulfed in flames as he moved towards the Parliament gates. Security forces, including Parliament guards, railway police, and locals, acted promptly to rescue him and extinguish the fire. A member of the fire department commended the swift response, which likely saved his life, but his condition remains critical.

Symbolic Protest Sparks Outrage and Debate

This incident has sparked outrage and a renewed debate over caste-based discrimination and mental health in India. Social activists have condemned the lack of support for marginalized communities and called for systemic reforms to address the grievances of Dalits.

Historical Context of Dalit Struggles

Dalits, historically referred to as "Untouchables," have faced centuries of oppression under India’s caste system. Despite affirmative action policies, many Dalits still endure economic hardships, social exclusion, and violent atrocities. Jitendra’s act of self-immolation serves as a stark reminder of these ongoing challenges.

Human rights organizations and political leaders are urging the government to investigate the incident thoroughly and address the root causes of caste-based injustice. Mental health advocates are also emphasizing the urgent need for accessible support systems to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.

The story is still developing, with further updates expected as investigations continue. Jitendra’s desperate act has put the spotlight on the pressing issues of caste discrimination, police accountability, and mental health in India.