In a shocking incident from Timbi village, located in Gujarat’s Bhavnagar district, a 21-year-old Dalit man was discovered dead on Thursday evening. His body was found on a road between his home and farmland, sparking suspicions of murder. Authorities believe he was killed by members of the upper-caste community, who had previously objected to him owning and riding a horse—an issue that had been a point of conflict for months.
Horse Ownership Led to Tensions
The victim, Pradeep Rathod, was last seen Thursday evening while returning home on horseback. Having completed his matriculation, he assisted his father in agricultural work. About five months ago, his father had purchased the horse for him, which did not sit well with certain members of the upper-caste community. In many rural areas, upper-caste individuals still hold the belief that Dalits should not own or ride horses, considering it an act of defiance. Rathod’s family had reportedly been facing intimidation, with upper-caste villagers demanding they get rid of the horse, even issuing threats of severe consequences.
Village Demographics and Rising Concerns
Timbi is a relatively small village with a population of around 6,000, where upper-caste families form the majority. Among them, only about 50 families belong to the Dalit community, including Rathod’s. He lived with his parents and brother.
Prominent Dalit rights activist Martin Macwan commented on the incident, linking it to the broader issue of caste-based violence. Referring to the Supreme Court’s recent remarks on the alleged misuse of the SC/ST Act, he stated, “We will tell the Supreme Court this is also a fake case of atrocities against the Dalit community.”
Investigation Underway
A formal police complaint has been lodged against three individuals from a neighboring village, who are suspected of involvement in Rathod’s murder. Authorities are investigating the case, with activists demanding strict action and justice for the victim.