Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad was detained today at the Jodhpur airport, on his way to meet the family of the Dalit boy killed by his teacher in Rajasthan last month.
He has been stopped from traveling to Jalore, the official said.
The boy killing has triggered massive anger and a political backlash in Congress-ruled Rajasthan.
Mr. Gehlot said he had ordered a swift probe and punishment for the boy’s killing. His words did not stop the BJP from attacking his government and Congress. “When will Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra advise Mr. Gehlot to ensure justice for Dalits in Rajasthan,” the party tweeted.
Indra Meghwal, a student of a private school in Surana village of Rajasthan’s Jalore district, was beaten up by his teacher on July 20 for allegedly touching a drinking water pot. The boy succumbed to his injuries at a hospital in Ahmedabad on August 13.
Protests erupted across Jalore after the incident. An additional police force has been deployed in the village because of the visit of Bhim Army leaders.
The Jodhpur Police stopped the Bhim Army chief at the airport and said he would not be allowed to go any further.