Outrage has erupted in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district after a Dalit woman was allegedly denied entry into the Sunkulamma Temple in Somayajulapalli village of Orvakal mandal, prompting a police complaint under the SC and ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.
According to the complaint, Malathi, a government employee belonging to the Mala community, visited the temple for darshan when the priest, identified as Janardhan, allegedly stopped her from entering the inner premises. She claimed the priest told her that she had “limits” and was not allowed inside the temple. The priest’s son, Vamsi, allegedly supported him during the incident.
Malathi stated that when she questioned the reason for being denied entry, the priest responded arrogantly and told her she could complain to anyone, but would still not be allowed inside the temple. The exchange reportedly led to a heated argument at the temple premises, creating tension in the village.
Left with no option, Malathi approached the Orvakal police station and demanded action against the priest under the SC and ST Act. Speaking to the media after filing the complaint, she expressed pain over the incident and said caste discrimination continuing in modern times was deeply disturbing.
“Before God, everyone is equal. Denying entry into a temple in the name of caste is completely unacceptable,” Malathi said. She added that she approached the police not just for herself but to ensure that no one else faces similar humiliation in the future.
Orvakal police confirmed that they have received the complaint and said a case will be registered and investigated as per the law.
