A 23-year-old Dalit priest has resigned from a temple in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, alleging caste discrimination, threats and false complaints against him. The priest, P.R. Vishnu, has accused members linked to the CPM-affiliated Devaswom Employees Confederation of creating a hostile work environment.
Priest Selected by Travancore Devaswom Recruitment Board
Vishnu was working as a part-time priest at Malikampeedika Vathurakkavu Temple in Alangad. He had replaced the regular priest and was appointed four months ago after clearing a written test and interview conducted by the Travancore Devaswom Recruitment Board.
Soon after his appointment, Vishnu claims the temple began receiving false complaints against him from unknown and bogus addresses.
“Attempts Were Made to Brand Me a Thief”
Speaking about his experience, Vishnu said he was drawn to the priesthood because of his deep interest in Sanatan Dharma and had undergone rigorous training in tantric pujas.
“There were attempts to brand me a thief,” Vishnu alleged. “I was shocked to know that the gold jewellery on the idol was removed and replaced with fake ones. I had a doubt and consulted a goldsmith to check the quality of the jewellery. I had a narrow escape from being falsely accused.”
Vishnu said the situation created fear and humiliation, making it difficult for him to continue in his role.
Family Also Facing Pressure
Vishnu, the son of daily wage labourer P.K. Rameshan and homemaker Soumya Rameshan, alleged that his family has also been targeted.
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“There has been pressure from various quarters to withdraw a previous police complaint that I had filed against a local person,” he said. “On Wednesday, the TDB president’s office called me. Crime Branch officials recorded my statement. I told them if action is taken against those who humiliated me, I would reconsider my resignation.”
Devaswom Employees Confederation Responds
Reacting to the allegations, Prajith Kumar, state president of the Devaswom Employees Confederation, said the organisation would not tolerate caste discrimination.
“Our organisation will not allow anyone to unleash caste discrimination against our priests as they have been chosen by the TDB commissioner,” Kumar said. “We will take action against those TDB staff who have humiliated Vishnu.”
The resignation has sparked discussion in Kerala over caste discrimination within temple administration systems. Vishnu’s case highlights ongoing concerns about equal treatment of Dalits in religious institutions.
The matter is now under scrutiny, with Crime Branch officials recording statements as part of the inquiry.
