The incident in Dombivli, Maharashtra, where BJP officials allegedly forced Congress functionary Prakash ‘Mama’ Pagare to wear a sari, continues to escalate. Pagare is currently hospitalized, receiving treatment. Senior Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, directly contacted Pagare on Thursday to inquire about his well-being. During their conversation, Gandhi assured Pagare, “Mama, don’t worry, Congress is with you. Balasaheb Thorat informed me about you.” Gandhi expressed pride in Pagare’s 50 years of service to the Congress party. Pagare became emotional during the conversation and requested that Gandhi visit him in Mumbai. The incident in Dombivli has sparked discussion at the local, state, and national levels, generating anger among Congress workers. The direct phone call from Rahul Gandhi has provided significant support to local officials.
The incident began when Pagare forwarded an edited photo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Subsequently, BJP officials summoned him to the streets of Dombivli and forcibly made him wear a sari. This event has gained attention throughout Kalyan-Dombivli and across the state. Rahul Gandhi was informed about the incident by Maharashtra Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat, prompting Gandhi to speak with Pagare directly. He assured the hospitalized Dalit leader that the party stands with him. Pagare himself stated that he is confident that Rahul Gandhi would visit him in Mumbai. Kalyan police are currently investigating the case, and an FIR has been filed. Pagare’s statement was recorded in the hospital. He mentioned that he contacted Balasaheb Thorat immediately after the incident, knowing Thorat’s close relationship with the Gandhi family. Thorat informed Rahul Gandhi, who then promised to speak with Pagare personally and assured him of the party’s unwavering support. Pagare expressed his belief that Gandhi will visit him when he comes to Mumbai.