Congress leader Rahul Gandhi met the family of Hariom Valmiki, a 40-year-old Dalit man who was lynched in Raebareli on October 2. The meeting took place in Fatehpur, approximately 80 km from Chakeri airport, where Gandhi arrived amid tight security. Valmiki was killed by villagers who mistook him for a thief during a night vigil, spurred by rumors of a gang using drones for robberies.

During the visit, which lasted about 25 minutes, Gandhi expressed his condolences to Hariom's family, including his father Gangadeen, brother Shivam, and sister Kusum. He criticized the Uttar Pradesh government, stating, "Dalit oppression is at its peak under this government," and highlighted that Uttar Pradesh leads the nation in cases of Dalit persecution, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

The incident has drawn significant outrage, with opposition parties accusing the ruling BJP of failing to protect Dalits and control mob violence. Following the lynching, police arrested 14 individuals, including the main suspect, who was apprehended after an encounter on October 10. Additionally, five police officers, including two sub-inspectors, were suspended for their alleged mishandling of the case.

Before Gandhi's visit, Shivam Valmiki, the victim's brother, released a video stating that the family did not want politics involved in their tragedy, expressing satisfaction with the government's response. However, the Congress party claimed this was an attempt by the BJP to manipulate the situation.

In a move to support the family, the government offered Kusum a contract position as a staff nurse at Fatehpur Medical College. Earlier, on October 11, Hariom's wife, Sangeeta Valmiki, and other family members met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who assured them of justice and promised government support, including housing and job opportunities. Adityanath emphasized that ensuring the safety and dignity of Dalits is a priority for his administration.