People from the Dalit community in Karnataka’s Bagalkot district were allegedly served a separate meal at a temple fair, triggering a controversy over alleged caste discrimination and untouchability.
The incident was reported from Tamadaddi village in Teradal taluk, where a Lakshmi Devi temple fair was held on October 2.
A complaint was filed at Teradal Police Station by Basappa Yaladagal, a Dalit resident of the village. According to his complaint, separate arrangements were allegedly made for members of the Dalit community during the fair.
Dalits Allegedly Served Ganji Separately
According to the complaint, members of upper caste communities were served a regular meal, while Dalit attendees were allegedly served only ganji separately.
Ganji is a fermented rice-based dish consumed in several parts of India.
A case was registered on October 3 based on Yaladagal’s complaint. Around 20 people have been named, including Sukumar Patil, Basavaraj Yadawad, Nandappa Nandappanavar, Bhimappa Konnur and Suresh Akkivatti.
The allegations have raised concerns over possible caste-based discrimination at a public religious gathering.
Article 17 Prohibits Untouchability
Untouchability is prohibited under Article 17 of the Indian Constitution, which states that its practice in any form is abolished. Laws including the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, provide for penalties for enforcing disabilities arising from untouchability.
The incident took place on October 2, which is observed as Gandhi Jayanti, marking the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi had opposed untouchability and advocated equal access to public spaces, including temples and schools.
Similar Allegations Reported Earlier
The incident has also raised concerns because similar allegations had reportedly surfaced earlier in Tamadaddi village during another religious event, the Panchakalyanotsava.
