“This Ritual Is Not for People Like You”: In Damoh, a Differently-Abled Dalit Groom Was Pulled Off His Horse During the ‘Rachwai’ Ceremony and Subjected to Such Treatment That…!
Wedding guests captured a video of this brutality, which has now gone viral on social media, becoming a source of shame for the entire society. Damoh—In Bijori Pathak village, located within the jurisdiction of the Hatta police station in Madhya Pradesh’s Damoh district, a heartbreaking and reprehensible incident has come to light. This event has exposed the deep fissures of caste-based discrimination that, despite official claims of social equality, remain a stark reality in rural India. Golu Ahirwar—a 23-year-old differently-abled Dalit groom—was subjected to such brutal physical assault during the pre-wedding ritual known as ‘Rachwai’ that it sent a wave of outrage across the entire state. The casteist thugs showed absolutely no mercy, not even sparing the groom due to his physical disability. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening as Golu, mounted on a mare, was passing through the village accompanied by his family and the wedding procession. At that moment, certain self-proclaimed strongmen of the village objected to the procession and launched an attack. According to the victim, individuals identified as Guddu Singh, Krishna, Hakam, and Paltu Lodhi not only forcibly dragged him off the mare but also beat him so severely with sticks and clubs that the festive atmosphere of the wedding was instantly transformed into one of mourning. The wedding guests managed to record this act of brutality on video; the footage has since gone viral on social media, bringing shame upon the entire society. Humiliating and inflicting violence upon an individual based on their caste during a significant social and cultural occasion like a wedding reflects the narrow-minded mentality prevalent in society; furthermore, subjecting a differently-abled person to such treatment is an act of extreme inhumanity. Recounting that heart-stopping moment, the victim’s sister, Manisha Ahirwar, stated that as the procession was moving forward, the accused deliberately blocked their path by parking their vehicle in the narrow lane. When they were requested to move the vehicle, they rushed forward aggressively, shoved Golu off the mare, and knocked him to the ground. He recounted that four individuals collectively attacked him, explicitly stating that a mare could not enter this lane, nor could a procession of “people like them” be taken out here. They further made it clear that this ritual was not meant for people of their kind. An even more shocking fact is that, despite the groom being differently-abled, the attackers showed absolutely no mercy. Golu’s mother, Vidya Ahirwar, stated that her son was dragged off the mare and brutally beaten; when her daughter attempted to intervene, she too was assaulted. Amidst the chaos of the attack, some of her daughter’s gold jewelry also went missing. Following the assault, the entire family and the wedding guests proceeded directly to the Hatta Police Station to seek justice. Confirming the incident, Station In-charge Sudhir Kumar Begi stated that during Golu Ahirwar’s *Rachwai* (pre-wedding procession), as the entourage approached the village’s shrine, Vishwanath Lodhi, Chintu Lodhi, and others raised objections to the groom riding a mare and launched an attack. The police have registered a case under relevant sections of the law, including the SC/ST Act. However, this is not the first instance of such an incident occurring in this village. Locals recall that on a previous occasion, when a *Dalit* groom’s procession was being taken out, members of the upper castes had raised objections; subsequently, social organizations had to intervene to somehow ensure the procession could proceed. The police have deployed security forces in the village, and following a medical examination, the groom’s family has departed for Budhi Semra village in the Chhatarpur district to complete the wedding rituals. Expressing deep concern over this entire episode, social activist and Bhim Army leader Sunil Astey stated that the incident of assault is extremely grave and condemnable. He asserted that this event constitutes not merely a criminal act, but a blatant violation of the rights to equality, dignity, and liberty enshrined in the Constitution. Asteya stated that humiliating an individual and resorting to violence against them on the basis of their caste during a social and cultural occasion—such as a wedding—reflects the narrow-minded mentality prevalent in society; such treatment is particularly inhumane when directed at a person with disabilities. He has urged the administration to ensure the swift arrest of all accused individuals, conduct an impartial investigation to initiate strict punitive action against the culprits, and take action under the National Security Act (NSA) against elements that seek to sow fear and unrest within society. Furthermore, he emphasized the need to formulate a “Special Protection Framework” to safeguard Dalit grooms and social gatherings, thereby preventing the recurrence of such incidents in the future. It is imperative that the rule of law be upheld and that every citizen be granted the freedom to exercise their social and cultural rights without any discrimination, as maintaining harmony, dignity, and equality within society is a shared responsibility of the administration, civil society, and all sections of the community. Geetha Sunil Pillai Courtesy: Hindi News
Babasaheb had said—’The educated have betrayed us’; the meeting between former CJI Gavai and Dhirendra Shastri has rubbed salt into the wounds of the Bahujan community!
Users have termed this meeting an insult to the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar. Many users also recalled that historic statement by Babasaheb in which he had issued a warning regarding a ‘Hindu Rashtra’ (Hindu Nation). New Delhi—A recent meeting between former Supreme Court Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Dhirendra Shastri, the head priest (Peethadhishwar) of Bageshwar Dham, has sparked a storm on social media. Following this meeting, outrage has erupted across the spectrum—from the Bahujan community to constitutionalists. On social media, users are condemning the former CJI for meeting with a staunch Hindu spiritual guru, despite being a Buddhist and an Ambedkarite himself. Many are also recalling Gavai’s infamous ‘shoe incident,’ when a lawyer attempted to throw a shoe at the former CJI right inside the courtroom. Recently, photographs of the meeting between former Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Bageshwar Dham’s head priest, Dhirendra Shastri, went viral on social media. Dhirendra Shastri—popularly known as ‘Bageshwar Baba’—has openly advocated for the establishment of a ‘Hindu Rashtra’ and championed the *Manusmriti*. Consequently, when an individual who once held the country’s highest constitutional office went to meet him, it triggered widespread outrage within the Bahujan community. Public interest lawyer Prashant Bhushan posted on his X account: “I can’t believe my eyes! Former CJI Gavai with a hate-mongering charlatan! What kind of message is he sending to the judiciary? Shocking!” Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar had issued a stern warning regarding a ‘Hindu Rashtra,’ describing it as the “greatest calamity” and a “terrible disaster” for the country. He asserted that such a state would pose a threat to democracy, liberty, equality, and fraternity, and must be prevented at all costs, as it could be detrimental to the interests of Dalits, women, and minorities. Users have characterized this meeting as an affront to the ideals and vision of Babasaheb Ambedkar. Many users also recalled that historic statement by Babasaheb in which he issued a warning regarding the concept of a ‘Hindu Rashtra’ (Hindu Nation). Journalist Nadeem Ahmed Sheikh stated, “The visit of former Chief Justice B.R. Gavai to Bageshwar Dham—and his meeting with Dhirendra Shastri—is a matter of concern. India is a pluralistic and constitutional nation; it does not seem appropriate for an individual holding a position of such dignity as a former Chief Justice to meet with a speaker who repeatedly advocates for a ‘Hindu Rashwar’ and makes scathing remarks against other religions. The judiciary must appear impartial and equal in its treatment of all; when a former Chief Justice openly visits such a platform, it raises the question: have constitutional values and secularism been confined merely to the pages of books? Faith is a personal matter, but the responsibilities of an individual who has held a constitutional office are not merely personal. India must proceed along the path of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ (Support of All, Development for All), rather than engaging with platforms that espouse the language of division.” Journalist Shakeel Akhtar observes, “Until the Dalit community realizes who, from within their own ranks, is actually tightening their chains, outsiders like Rahul Gandhi will be unable to offer them much assistance. Bageshwar Dham—or Dhirendra Shastri—has faced numerous allegations of making anti-Dalit statements. His own brother, in fact, stands accused of threatening a Dalit family while brandishing a country-made pistol. In such a context, Justice Gavai’s visit to the site serves only to encourage ordinary Dalits to visit there as well. Perhaps that is precisely why Bageshwar Dham itself tweeted the news of this visit, complete with accompanying photographs.” One user wrote, “Bhim Jayanti has just passed—the very ‘Bhim’ who ensured that justice was delivered to us. And yet, thanks to that very justice—which enabled individuals to ascend to high offices—we now see such a person visiting a place steeped in superstition.” Journalist Avesh Tiwari writes, “This is former CJI B.R. Gavai, being honored by the number-one fraud, charlatan, and loudmouth, Dhirendra Shastri. I recall the time when a lawyer threw a shoe at him; back then, I completely shredded the haters who mocked him. When Gavai was elevated to the bench, it was hailed as a victory for Ambedkarism and a major achievement for Dalits. Looking at this photograph fills me with shame. I have no hesitation in stating that, to this day, Ambedkarites have failed to find honest leadership—an honest hero—for themselves. Of all those they have found, not a single one possesses a strong moral spine. This is a truly obscene image.” Ambedkarite activist Rohit Raj writes, “It was this very judge who, because of his Dalit identity, once had a shoe thrown at him. Seeing this saddens me—yes, it truly saddens me—that such a highly educated man, a former Chief Justice no less, would seek out a charlatan. What compulsion drives this? On one hand, you chant ‘Jai Bhim,’ yet on the other, you succumb to blind superstition. It is truly baffling.” One user wrote, “Babasaheb Ambedkar once said, ‘It is the educated people who have betrayed me.’ Former CJI Gavai belongs to that very category. To this day, he has not delivered a single verdict that truly upholds social justice.” **Why the Meeting with Shastri Recalled the ‘Shoe-Throwing Incident’** This meeting takes on even greater significance when we look back at the events that led to the infamous ‘shoe-throwing incident’ involving former CJI Gavai and lawyer Rakesh Kishore. The entire controversy revolved around an idol of Lord Vishnu located in Khajuraho. The head of an ancient, 7-foot-tall idol of Lord Vishnu within the temple premises had been damaged. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Supreme Court demanding the restoration of this idol. On September 16, 2025, the then-CJI B.R. A bench presided over by Justice Gavai was hearing this matter; during the proceedings, Justice Gavai remarked to the petitioner: “You claim to be a devout devotee of Lord Vishnu. In that case, go now and pray directly to the Lord.” This comment was taken in great offense by advocate Rakesh Kishore. On the morning of October
Lodhi community men assault physically challenged Dalit groom during pre-wedding procession in MP
Four Lodhi community men, identified as Vishwanath Lodhi, Bicchu, Chinnu and Paltu Lodhi, pulled the groom from the horse and assauled him with sticks. BHOPAL: A 23-year-old physically challenged scheduled caste (SC) groom, Golu Ahirwar, was brutally assaulted and pulled down from a horse allegedly by members of the OBC Lodhi community in Damoh district of MP’s Bundelkhand region during his pre-wedding procession. The incident happened in Bijori Pathak village under Hatta police station area on Tuesday evening, when the Rachwai (a customary pre-wedding ritual) of the groom was underway. As the pre-wedding procession of the Dalit groom passed through the village, powerful Lodhi community men overtook the procession and parked their vehicle to block the passage. Four Lodhi community men, identified as Vishwanath Lodhi, Bicchu, Chinnu and Paltu Lodhi, pulled the groom from the horse and started assaulting him with sticks. The video of the alleged incident was recorded by the Dalit family. The groom’s mother, Vidya Ahirwar, alleged that the attackers showed no mercy, despite her son being physically challenged. “They beat him mercilessly. They didn’t even spare my daughter, Manisha. They assaulted her when she tried to resist the attack on her brother.” After the incident, the Dalit family rushed to the Hatta police station and reported the entire matter. While confirming the incident, Hatta police station in-charge Sudhir Kumar said, a case has been registered under IPC Sections 126(2), 296(b), 115(2), 351(2), 3(5) and relevant Sections of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, and investigations are underway. The police force has been deployed in the village to prevent further escalation and ensure that the wedding rituals proceed without disruption. As per reports, after undergoing a medical examination, the groom and his family left for Budhi Semra village in the adjoining Chhatarpur district to complete the wedding rituals. Courtesy : TNIE Note: This news is originally published on https:/thenewindianexpress.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
MP: Attack on Dalit Groom’s Pre-Wedding Procession in Damoh; Pulled Off Horse and Assaulted; Family Reaches Police Station with Wedding Procession
A case has come to light in the Hatta police station area of Damoh, where a Dalit groom with a disability was pulled off his horse and assaulted by local strongmen during his *Rachwai* (pre-wedding procession). The police have registered a case under the SC/ST Act and have initiated an investigation. On Tuesday evening, a dispute erupted during the *Rachwai* of a disabled groom belonging to the Dalit community in Bijori Pathak village, located within the Hatta police station jurisdiction of Damoh district. It is alleged that certain influential individuals (strongmen) from the village pulled the groom down from his horse and assaulted him using sticks and clubs. The incident caused chaos and panic at the scene. Members of the groom’s side, accompanied by the entire wedding procession, proceeded to the Hatta police station and lodged a formal complaint. The police have registered a case under various sections, including the SC/ST Act, and have deployed a police force in the village to maintain order. **Wedding Procession Bound for Chhatarpur; Pre-Wedding Procession Being Held First** According to reports, the wedding procession of Golu Ahirwar (23)—son of Bhagirath Ahirwar and a resident of Bijori Pathak village—was scheduled to travel on Tuesday to Budhi Semra village in the Buxwaha region of Chhatarpur district. Before the main wedding procession departed, the groom’s *Rachwai* was being carried out within the village around 5:00 PM. Golu was seated on a horse, while his family members and fellow community members were celebrating. During this time, as the *Rachwai* reached the ‘Lodhi Mohalla’ (neighborhood) of the village, certain individuals raised objections. It is alleged that they demanded the groom dismount from his horse. When he resisted, the physical assault began. **Groom Levels Serious Allegations** The victim, groom Golu Ahirwar, stated that as soon as the *Rachwai* reached the front of a particular house, some people present there pulled him down from his horse and attacked him with sticks and clubs. He alleged that Guddu Singh, Krishna, Hakam, Paltu, and others were involved in assaulting him. Golu further mentioned that despite his disability, the accused beat him mercilessly. **Allegations of Assault Against Sister and Mother as Well** The groom’s mother, Vidya Ahirwar, stated that when family members announced that the groom’s wedding procession (Baraat) was about to depart and the traditional pre-procession ritual (Rachhwai) was being observed, the accused launched an attack. She further reported that her daughter—the groom’s sister, Manisha—who intervened to mediate the situation, was also physically assaulted. A complaint has also been lodged regarding the disappearance of some of her gold jewelry during the altercation. **Entire Wedding Procession Reaches Police Station; Police Conduct Medical Examination** Following the incident, members of the groom’s side, outraged by the events, took the groom and the entire wedding procession to the Hatta Police Station. A formal complaint was registered there. The police subsequently arranged for a medical examination of the groom. Thereafter, the wedding procession was allowed to proceed under police protection. **Case Registered Under SC/ST Act and Other Provisions** Late at night, following the registration of the case, Hatta Police Station In-charge Sudhir Kumar Begi stated that, based on the complaint filed by the aggrieved party—Gariba Ahirwar—a case has been registered against local villagers Vishwanath Lodhi, Bichchhu Lodhi, Paltu, and other accused individuals under various sections of the law, including the SC/ST Act. He added that, in view of the prevailing tension in the village, an adequate police force has been deployed to ensure that the wedding rituals can be conducted peacefully. **Outrage Within the Dalit Community; Preparations Underway for a Major Protest** The incident has sparked widespread outrage within the local Dalit community. Community members have demanded the immediate arrest of the accused and strict punitive action against them. Several social organizations have also condemned the incident, issuing a warning to the administration that if strict action is not taken against the culprits, a framework for a large-scale protest movement will be devised. **Questions Raised Regarding Social Responsibility and the Spirit of the Constitution** This incident is not merely a criminal matter; it serves as a test of social consciousness and constitutional values. The Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the right to live with equality, respect, and dignity. Preventing any individual from participating in weddings, festivities, or social traditions on the basis of caste is not only a legally punishable offense but also a violation of fundamental human values. **Similar Disputes Have Occurred in the Past** For years, the government, social welfare organizations, and conscientious citizens have been striving to strengthen social harmony by propagating messages of equality, brotherhood, and mutual respect. Such efforts are having a visible positive impact on society, with people in numerous villages and cities setting aside caste distinctions to celebrate festivals and ceremonies together. However, incidents of this nature indicate that the narrow-minded and casteist mentality of certain individuals continues to act as a hindrance to social progress. Such individuals must respect the law, understand the rights and duties enshrined in the Constitution, and convey a message of equality and harmony—rather than discrimination—to the younger generation. According to villagers, disputes regarding the wedding procession (*rachwai*) of a young man from the Dalit community have arisen in the village on previous occasions as well. Even at that time, the procession was eventually carried out only after the intervention of social organizations. The recurrence of such an incident has once again created an atmosphere of tension within the village. **Here, for the First Time, a Dalit Groom Rode a Horse** On Saturday evening, in the village of Patna Durga—located adjacent to Damoh city—a wedding procession featuring a Dalit groom riding a horse was carried out for the very first time. The event concluded peacefully. Deepraj Jatav, the District President of the Azad Samaj Party (Kanshiram), along with his team, had proactively requested police protection in advance. In recent times, several incidents involving attempts to prevent Dalit grooms from riding horses—often accompanied by physical assault—have come to light within the district. The case involving
Play documenting stories of oppression showcased in Bengaluru
The 33-minute Kannada documentary traces the many socio-political realities faced by Dalits in contemporary India. ‘Song of Ghetto’ (Keri Haadu), directed by Chandrashekara K and produced by city-based arts collective Jangama, won the Best Documentary Award at the P K Rosy Film Festival. The festival is organised as part of the Vaanam Art Festival, an annual initiative during Dalit History Month by acclaimed filmmaker Pa Ranjith’s Neelam Cultural Centre The 33-minute Kannada documentary traces the many socio-political realities faced by Dalits in contemporary India. The film focuses on the lives of a Dalit community in Dindagur of Hassan district — their resistance against untouchability and their fight to claim their fundamental right to enter their village temple The film shows how discrimination persists — from being denied access to temples and eateries to them being barred from drinking water from public tanks, and how caste segregation seeps in like DNA, with children from privileged castes refusing to mingle with their Dalit counterparts. Even as many believe education is a way out, caste continues to shadow their lives when they return to their hometowns. There is significant evidence to show that such practices are seen across the country and not limited to Dindagur. Chandrashekara shot the entire film on his mobile phone. During a workshop conducted by Jangama in the village, he began documenting people’s stories, eventually shaping 17 hours of footage into this documentary. He aims to document more such instances of caste-based oppression across villages. Pranati A S Courtesy : DH Note: This news is originally published on https:/deccanherald.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Dalit voters of Villupuram share support across parties over lack of development and emanicpation
Even cadres within the DMK raised opposition to Lakshmanan canvassing in GRP Street, alleging that he betrayed former MLA S Pushparaj by not facilitating him a seat in Vanur in this Assembly election. VILLUPURAM: With just a day to go for the election, the voter mood in Villupuram town is swaying in a three-cornered contest between the DMK, AIADMK and TVK. With the last leg of campaign rallies under way in the town, residents expressed dissent against the DMK government for not providing basic amenities in Dalit residential areas such as Valudareddy and GRP Street. Both areas, which have nearly 3,000 voters each, still lack proper drinking water facilities, roads and infrastructure. With dense populations and cramped housing, the localities almost sink during peak monsoon periods, but mitigation has not been carried out through proper infrastructure development. A Arumugam (55), a resident of Annai Indira Nagar, said, “We need to fetch water from a common pipe, so we go there as early as 4 am. This lifestyle, driven by lack of amenities, makes us wonder if we really live in the modern era.” Meanwhile, young supporters of TVK in both areas criticised the DMK and AIADMK for playing “cunning” politics over the years. They are also influencing their parents to vote for actor-turned-politician Vijay’s whistle symbol, seeking “a fresh political space devoid of caste equations”. “Both parties ruled us for so long, but I am still stigmatised for coming from a ‘colony’. My neighbourhood is not hygienic, decent or healthy. Whose fault is it, and why should we choose them again now? They claim social justice and equality, but in reality they do not live up to it. We don’t want to support such cunning politics,” said Kumudha (22, name changed), a resident of GRP Street and a member of TVK. Even cadres within the DMK raised opposition to Lakshmanan canvassing in GRP Street, alleging that he betrayed former MLA S Pushparaj by not facilitating him a seat in Vanur in this Assembly election. Several supporters of the latter pointed out that Dalit emancipation has not been enabled by either AIADMK or DMK leaders in Villupuram due to casteist intentions. In a video circulating on social media, a DMK supporter was heard saying, “Only he (Lakshmanan) wants to be minister and MLA. Why not a Scheduled Caste person come to power?” “Pushparaj, a Dalit politician, is a resident of Villupuram. If he becomes an MLA in Vanur, that would mean social empowerment of Dalits not only in Vanur but also in Villupuram town. This is essentially a problem for dominant caste politicians in Villupuram, and the town is entrenched in casteist politics that does not allow a Dalit person to rise within party structures, especially in the DMK,” said P K Diwakar (32). This is no different in the AIADMK. “I have been working in the party for the last 19 years, but former minister C Ve Shanmugam has not visited or even asked me about deaths in my family. Their Dalit aversion is so evident that I decided to quit politics altogether,” said a 56-year-old Dalit block-level cadre in the AIADMK from Villupuram (on condition of anonymity). Speaking to TNIE, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) district secretary R Periyar said the current DMK MLA had provided welfare measures to Valudareddy, including an anganwadi building, two fair price shops, a cremation shelter and borewell mechanisms that are yet to be made operational for public use. He added that though development for Dalit residents in the town is not adequate, it is important to consider the consequences of supporting the AIADMK, which would indirectly mean supporting the BJP. “VCK cadres will work for the victory of the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance in Villupuram constituency,” he said. Though there is a broader sentiment favouring the DMK, such nuanced emotions among Dalit residents, whose votes could decide the outcome in Villupuram, cannot be overlooked. With youngsters leaning towards TVK, some elders shifting support to the AIADMK, and growing dissent against the DMK MLA, the contest is likely to be closely fought with narrow margins. Krithika Srinivasan Courtesy : TNIE Note: This news is originally published on https:/thenewindianexpress.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
People of goodwill urged to come together to fight caste-based injustice
“Thirteen Dalits are murdered every week across India due to ever-increasing caste-based violence. Yet many incidents of horrific caste-based discrimination and violence go unreported due to fear, social pressure and lack of support,” said Sister Manju Devarapalli, a Carmelite religious sister and General Secretary of National Dalit Christian Watch in India. Sister Devarapalli was speaking at a conference organised by The Christian Network Against Caste Discrimination (CNACD) at the London Jesuit Centre last Thursday 16th April. She said: “The caste system is not a relic of the corrupt past, it is an indictment of a present in which millions are being exploited and abused. It is carried out in plain sight and perpetuated by wealth, influence and an instinct to defer to those at the top.” Sister Devarapalli urged not passive sympathy but an active response: “Legal reforms that bury abuse; international advocacy and financial support.” She explained how India’s caste system of social stratification became a central mechanism of British colonial governance. Despite being officially outlawed at independence in 1947, it stubbornly endures. Within this system, the Dalits – categorised as ritually unclean ‘untouchables’ – are condemned to a harsh life of segregation and exploitation. They are obliged to use separate water sources, cremation and burial grounds, and to live in marginalised communities. Their access to places of worship is restricted. Social ‘transgressions’ – such as wearing footwear or riding a horse – can be brutally punished. Those crimes which are reported against Dalits occur every 18 minutes. Less than ten per cent of marriages are inter-caste and, in rural north India in particular, women who defy such social stigma are vulnerable to murder (the grotesquely misnamed phenomenon of ‘honour killings’). According to Sister Devarapalli, hate speech in general is on the rise in India, with the Hindu nationalist majority, including its leadership, targeting Muslims and Christians. She explained that the ‘upper castes’ such as Brahmins and Rajputs dominate key economic and political positions and have disproportionate ownership of the land. Conversely, most Dalits remain landless labourers and 1.3 million are ‘manual scavengers’ – responsible for cleaning dry latrines, despite a 1993 banning of this degrading work. Other Dalits carry out leather work and waste collection. Fifty million Dalits are estimated to exist under conditions of modern slavery. Sister Devarapalli concluded by saying, “Desmond Tutu warned: if you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” In a video address, the Catholic cross-bench peer David Alton lamented the endless daily atrocities of the caste system which, like the Apartheid system, deprived the Dalits of essential humanity. He said, ‘We must learn from the Anti-Apartheid movement and apply economic sanctions, boycotts and diplomatic isolation.’ Dr Anderson Jeremiah, the Anglican Bishop of Edmonton, and a Dalit from Tamil Nadu, spoke of the crippling educational barriers for his community. He himself endured humiliation and obstruction, made to sit at the back of the class and only able to learn English when aged 20, but ‘I saw the power that knowledge brings.’ He also decided to become a priest. ‘I saw the Church has the capacity to provide transformation, to bring dignity, humanity and freedom to people.’ He noted that 75 per cent of Christians in India are from Dalit communities although the leadership structure is generally still from the ‘higher’ castes. He applauded the fact that the Catholic church now had a Dalit cardinal and two Dalit bishops. Fr Roy Sebastian SJ from India, who works alongside the Dalits, spoke of the grim reality of funds for Dalit development being withheld by government, of rampant violence, and of exclusion of Dalit Christians by other Indian Christians. More positively, he was able to report of the training of 6000 community leaders thanks to Church support. Meena Varma, Executive Director of the International Dalit Solidarity Network, spoke of the struggle to ‘get the UK government to fulfil its responsibilities’ by providing legislative protection for the Dalits, because the caste-based system remains a lived reality in the South Asian diaspora (7.5 per cent of the UK population). It is estimated, that world-wide some 260 million people suffer from discrimination based on caste. Some 25 million are estimated to have migrated from South Asia to other countries. Caste-based prejudice and discrimination are operative in more than 100 countries where South Asians have migrated, including the UK. Following general discussion, the conference advocated intersectional solidarity with all people of goodwill. It urged ongoing fact-finding and the need to give voice to the Dalits in the struggle to provide justice and dignity. A synodal approach should be maintained: both the Bishops’ Conferences in Britain, and the Roman conference with bishop synodal presidents reporting to Pope Leo in the autumn, should discuss this issue as a matter of serious and urgent ongoing concern. The CNACD warmly invites people to contact it in the hope of instilling fresh momentum into its crucial work. Dr Philip Crispin Courtesy : ICN Note: This news is originally published on https:/independentcatholicnews.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Road Construction Halted in Jaunpur; Dalit Families Protest: Interlocking Road Being Built via Village Fund; Justice Sought from DM
On Tuesday, hundreds of men and women staged a protest within the Collectorate premises in Jaunpur’s Pariyawa village, opposing the halting of work on an interlocking road project being constructed using the Village Fund. The protesters chanted slogans demanding, “DM Sir, give us justice,” and submitted a memorandum to City Magistrate Indra Nandan Singh. Village Head S.P. Manav alleged that the construction of the interlocking road had been initiated using the Village Fund. He claimed that certain opposing parties forcibly obstructed the work, thereby disrupting the commute of approximately 150 Dalit families residing in the village. The Village Head stated that this pathway is nearly 100 years old. Between 2010 and 2015—during the tenure of former Village Head Prabhavati Devi—a 600-meter *kharanja* (stone-paved road) was constructed at this site. Currently, this *kharanja* has fallen into a completely dilapidated state and is in urgent need of reconstruction. On Monday, the incumbent Village Head commenced the work of constructing the interlocking road using the Village Fund. However, certain opposing parties and neighboring landowners prevented the work from proceeding. At the site, the width of the existing *kharanja* was reported to be 9 feet. Upon receiving information, a police team—contacted via the ‘112’ emergency helpline—arrived at the scene, but the construction work was still not allowed to move forward. The following day, Tuesday, a team from the Revenue Department along with police personnel reached the site. The team assessed the width of the previously constructed *kharanja* and issued directives to continue the construction work. Despite this, the opposing parties allegedly resorted to physical aggression and once again brought the work to a halt. The Village Head and the affected Dalit families maintain that this is their sole route for commuting, and it is being forcibly blocked. They have demanded that legal action be initiated against the opposing parties to ensure the unhindered movement of the 150 Dalit families, thereby allowing the road construction project to be completed. Ankit Srivastava | Jaunpur Courtesy: Hindi News
Kerala Dental Student’s Suicide: 52 Dalit Organisations Call Hartal On April 28; Demand HC-Monitored Probe
Council demanded ₹10 crore compensation for Nithin Raj’s family, cancellation of the college’s affiliation, strict action against faculty and a transparent and time-bound investigation. Thiruvananthapuram: A joint action council comprising 52 Dalit organisations in Kerala has called for a statewide hartal on April 28, alleging serious lapses in police investigation into the death of Nithin Raj R L, 22, a first-year student of Kannur Dental College in Anjarakandy, and that the probe has been inadequate and biased. The dawn-to-dusk shutdown is scheduled from 6 AM to 6 PM. The action council spearheading the protest has demanded a judicial probe under the supervision of the Kerala High Court, claiming that the police are attempting to shield those responsible. General convener Sunny M Kappikkad, addressing the media here on Tuesday, alleged that key evidence has been ignored and that there has been a deliberate attempt to attribute the death to unrelated factors such as loan app harassment. The council demanded immediate government intervention to ensure a fair and impartial investigation while citing a lack of progress in the case. The JAC has also planned to organise preparatory protest meetings scheduled across districts on April 24. The organisations have raised serious concerns over the handling of the case and demanded a probe under the supervision of the Kerala High Court. The council has demanded ₹10 crore as compensation for Nithin Raj’s family, cancellation of the college’s affiliation, strict action against those found guilty and called for a transparent and time-bound investigation. Son of a daily-wage labourer from Uzhamalakkal here, Nithin, succumbed to his injuries after a fall from the fifth floor of the college building on April 10. Nithin joined the college only in September last year when he secured a BDS seat after repeated attempts at the NEET examination. The incident took a serious turn when family members and fellow students alleged sustained caste-based harassment by faculty members. Later, the college suspended two faculty members – Dr M K Ram, Head of the Department of Oral Pathology, and Dr K T Sangeetha Nambiar, who went absconding after police turned the heat. The action council accused the police of failing to register an FIR based on the complaint filed by Nithin Raj’s parents. It also alleged possible political interference in the case, pointing to the college management’s lack of response and previous allegations against its authorities. “We’re not satisfied with the current police investigation and accused authorities of attempting to shield those responsible,” Sunny M Kappikkad said. He claimed that crucial aspects of the case were being overlooked and that efforts were being made to attribute the death to unrelated factors such as alleged loan app issues. The action council further alleged that the student had faced caste- and colour-based harassment prior to his death. It also claimed that several individuals, including members of the college administration, should be brought under the ambit of investigation. However, according to the council, no meaningful progress has been made so far. Courtesy : ETV Bharat Note: This news is originally published on https:/etvbharat.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Dalit Woman Alleges Custodial Assault, Caste Abuse in MP’s Sidhi On Ambedkar Jayanti
Dalit woman in Sidhi accuses constable and others of assault and caste slurs during Ambedkar rally. A serious allegation of custodial assault and caste-based abuse has emerged from Sidhi, where a Dalit woman has accused a police constable and three others of brutally attacking her during an Ambedkar Jayanti event. The incident, reported on April 14, has triggered public outrage and renewed concerns about police conduct and caste sensitivity in the region. What the complainant alleges The victim, identified as Pankali Saket, said she had gone to the Amaliya police station area to take part in an Ambedkar Jayanti rally when she was allegedly surrounded and attacked. According to her complaint, a police reservist and three men in civilian clothes assaulted her with sticks, causing injuries to her head, back, hands, and legs. She also alleged that casteist slurs were used during the attack. If proven, the allegations would fall under provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Medical and procedural concerns The woman further alleged that she did not receive proper treatment at a local hospital and had to purchase medicines herself despite visible injuries. She reported symptoms including dizziness and vomiting following the assault. A written complaint has been submitted to the Superintendent of Police in Sidhi, along with photographs of her injuries. Names of accused and investigation status One of the accused has been named as Saurabh Shukla, while the identity of another person remains unknown. The woman has also alleged involvement of a police personnel, identified as Abhishek. As of now, police authorities have not issued an official response or confirmed the registration of an FIR, which has added to public concern. Political and social reactions The case has gone viral on social media, drawing criticism from activists and political leaders. Sunil Asteya of the Azad Samaj Party questioned the state government, pointing out the contradiction between welfare schemes for women and alleged violence against Dalit women. He has demanded strict action under the SC/ST Act and warned of protests if no action is taken. Courtesy : TOP Note: This news is originally published on https:/theobserverpost.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights