During the Bihar election campaign, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi mentioned the transformed condition of Ramchet, a Dalit cobbler from Sultanpur, UP. Rahul Gandhi claims to have helped Ramchet, which allegedly improved his condition and enabled him to provide employment to 10 people. However, when the 'Aaj Tak' team visited and spoke to Ramchet's son, the reality appeared to be different.
Who is Ramchet the Cobbler?
Ramchet, a resident of Sultanpur, is a Dalit cobbler by profession. His shop is located near the highway in Guptarganj on the Ayodhya-Prayagraj road. In July 2024, Rahul Gandhi visited Sultanpur for a court appearance and, on his way back to Delhi, unexpectedly stopped at Ramchet's shop. Ramchet sought assistance to expand his business. Rahul Gandhi sent him an electronic sewing machine for shoes and bags, bringing Ramchet into the spotlight.
Reality Revealed by Son Raghav Ram
Currently, Ramchet's son, Raghav Ram, works at the shop with a relative. According to Raghav Ram, the machine provided by Rahul Gandhi has been unused for several months. He explained that his father, Ramchet, fell ill, leading to craftsmen leaving their jobs. Raghav Ram mentioned that earlier, two craftsmen used to work there, but now he is handling it alone. Although the work increased, the conditions remained unchanged.
Source: aajtak
Ramchet's Illness and Reality of Claims
Ramchet has been bedridden for months, lying under a thatched roof next to his house. He underwent treatment in Allahabad for a growth in his neck but has since lost the strength to sit up and converse. Nothing at the shop indicates that 10 people are employed there, as claimed.
Source: aajtak
Gratitude Yet an Unfortunate Twist of Fate
Despite Rahul Gandhi's claims during the Bihar election campaign of transforming Ramchet's circumstances, the ground reality remains different. Ramchet acknowledges the help provided by Rahul Gandhi in boosting his employment and facilitating medical treatment but, unfortunately, fate had other plans. Today, Ramchet continues to spend his days confined to his bed.
