Casteist Slurs Against Dalit MLA Gopal Ravidas: CPIML Condemns BJP-backed Forces
The recent incident of caste based attack in Kurthaul village (Fatuha) in Bihar, on January 26, 2025, where the inauguration of the plaque containing the Preamble of the Indian Constitution at a newly constructed school building was obstructed, has ignited widespread outrage. The incident involved casteist remarks aimed at CPIML MLA Gopal Ravidas, who was going to inaugurate the plaque.
CPIML State Secretary Comrade Kunal condemned this caste based attack orchestrated by BJP-supported feudal elements. The perpetrators, who barged into the ceremony said no Dalit leader should be allowed to perform such an inauguration, resorting to derogatory language and insulting Com. Gopal Ravidas. In a strong statement, Kunal affirmed that CPI(ML) has filed a case against the offenders and demanded their immediate arrest.
To protest the shameful act, CPI(ML) organised a protest march on January 28 in Fatuha, moving from Ishopur Nahar to Thana Chowk.
Tiranga Misused to create Communal Polarization in Masaurhi
In a separate but equally alarming development, BJP-RSS supporters reportedly misused the national flag during a motorcycle rally in Masaurhi, attempting to provoke communal tensions. The situation escalated when a Muslim youth, returning to his shop, was attacked with a knife in a cowardly assault.
CPI(ML) expressed deep concern over these incidents, highlighting the unconstitutional and anti-minority nature of the BJP’s actions. Kunal stated, "When a sitting MLA can be humiliated in such a manner, it is clear that this is part of a wider effort to subjugate Dalits and minorities, and impose a Manu-vadi ideology on the nation. The people will not allow this to succeed."
In response to these events, CPI(ML) has declared that a large-scale protest will take place on January 29 throughout Patna district. The protest will be a unified expression of resistance against BJP's anti-Constitutional, casteist, and communal actions.
Local Leaders Join in Condemnation
The protest march in Fatuha was led by the CPIML Block Secretary, Gurudev Das, with senior leaders of the Mahagathbandhan also denouncing the attacks against Gopal Ravidas. They have demanded the arrest of the offenders within 24 hours, urging Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to take immediate action to ensure justice.
“The BJP fears the Constitution because it guarantees rights to the oppressed,” said Comrade Gurudev at the protest. “Their goons attack Dalits and Muslims to suppress dissent, but we will resist this fascist onslaught.” The CPI(ML) reiterated its commitment to mobilising mass movements against caste apartheid and communal violence, framing the struggle as a defence of India’s pluralist ethos.
