An argument over a 500 rupee note in Kundapur, Karnataka, turned into casteist remarks and violence; police register case.
Karnataka: A case of casteist attack and abuse on a Dalit woman has come to light in Mavinakatte area of Kundapur taluk in Udupi district. It is alleged that the victim Lakshmi, who works in a medical shop, was attacked by customer Yasmin and casteist slurs were used.
Yasmin got angry on suggestion of digital payment, incident captured in CCTV
According to a report by News Karnataka, a woman named Yasmin wanted to buy medicine by paying a 500 rupee note. When Lakshmi told that there was no change in the shop and she suggested PhonePe or digital payment, Yasmin lost her temper. The argument escalated to a scuffle and casteist abuses.
The entire incident was recorded in the CCTV camera installed in the shop, the footage of which has now gone viral on social media, seeing which people are angry.
Victim admitted to hospital, SP visits
Lakshmi, injured in the attack, has been admitted to Kundapur Taluk Hospital. As soon as the incident was reported, Udupi District Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar reached the hospital and met the victim and went to the shop to inquire about the matter.
Speaking to the media, the SP said that the matter is being taken seriously and strict legal action will be taken on the basis of evidence. A case has been registered at Kundapur Rural Police Station and investigation is underway.
Dalit organizations demand strict action
This incident has increased tension at the local level. Dalit organizations and social workers have demanded strict action against the accused under sections of the Indian Penal Code including Section 3 of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
The police is investigating the CCTV footage and statements of eyewitnesses are being recorded.
Frontline workers need respect and social reform
This case not only exposes the truth of caste discrimination, but also shows the kind of abuse frontline workers face in their everyday lives. Social activists have demanded speedy justice and social reform in such cases.
The administration has assured that the case will be investigated impartially and the culprits will be punished according to the law.
Courtesy: Rajan Chaudhary, Hindi News