New Delhi: Jitendra Kumar, a 26-year-old Dalit man from Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, ended his life by setting himself on fire outside Rail Bhawan near the Indian Parliament in New Delhi, citing years of injustice.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Kumar’s drastic action was driven by prolonged harassment and intimidation by upper-caste individuals, including a local home guard. His father, Mahipal Kumar, detailed their struggles, beginning in 2021 after he opposed illegal alcohol sales in their village. This opposition triggered intimidation against the family, resulting in false legal cases, assaults, and lack of police response. Despite reaching out to authorities and the SC/ST commission, Jitendra’s requests for justice went unheeded.

The situation intensified in 2024 when Mahipal survived a deliberate car attack, and Jitendra’s sister-in-law experienced a miscarriage due to an assault. Superintendent of Police Arpit Vijayvargiya has committed to investigating the circumstances leading to Jitendra’s extreme decision. Additionally, local BJP MP Raj Kumar Sangwan has assured the family of an impartial inquiry and necessary actions.

Jitendra’s death sheds light on the persistent caste discrimination in India and highlights the need for systemic reforms to safeguard marginalized communities from such injustices.