The video shows a shameful scene, Dalit children insulted by calling them "Eliya Sathi" (aliya sathi). Find out what the whole story is.
Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu: A shocking and shameful case of caste discrimination, still deeply ingrained in society, has come to light in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu. In Kollanagarai village, some Dalit children were allegedly stopped by an elderly woman brandishing a stick and walking on a dirt road. The video of the entire incident has gone viral on social media, sparking widespread anger.
The viral video clearly shows a young man walking with some schoolchildren when an elderly woman, armed with a stick, blocks their path. Despite the young man’s efforts to move the stick aside, the woman repeatedly attempts to stop them from moving forward.
Insulted by being called “Eliya Sathi”
Reacting sharply to the incident, Tamil Nadu Untouchability Eradication Front state president Chellakannu strongly condemned the act. He explained that the elderly woman used the term “Eliya Sathi” to stop the children, which is a highly derogatory term used for Dalits.
What is the entire road dispute?
Chellakannu, explaining the incident, explained that the road over which the dispute arose is a normal dirt road. It is listed in government records as “Vandi Pathai,” meaning the road is authorized for vehicular traffic.
He further said, “Recently, some locals encroached upon this road by planting banana trees. This blocked the children’s direct route to school, forcing them to take a detour of approximately one and a half kilometers around a reservoir. This continued for 18 days, before some young men from the area intervened.”
It is reported that this encroachment was reported to the authorities three months ago, after which the Tehsildar intervened and the road was reopened.
Police launched an investigation
After the video of the incident surfaced, the police administration swung into action. Police have launched a preliminary investigation into the matter, although no FIR has been filed as of the time of writing this report.
Rajan Chaudhary
Courtesy: Hindi News