Tumakuru Farmer Arrested for Blocking Dalit Couple's Temple Entry
A 58-year-old agriculturist from Gonitumakuru village in Turuvekere taluk of Tumakuru district has been arrested on serious charges of preventing a newlywed Dalit couple from entering a temple last week. The incident, which has sparked outrage, highlights ongoing caste-based discrimination in rural areas.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The alleged event occurred on February 19 when a farmer from Dabbaghatta, identified as K Jagadeesh, arrived at the Aadi Shakti Arasamma temple. Jagadeesh was accompanied by his younger sister and her husband, who had recently been married. According to police reports, the group was shocked when Narayanappa, the agriculturist, stopped them from entering the temple premises.
Jagadeesh recounted the disturbing encounter to authorities, stating, "To our shock, Narayanappa stopped us from entering the temple. When we questioned him, he acted as if he was possessed by a deity and spoke in a strange voice. He directed us to leave the temple, claiming we belonged to a lower caste. Additionally, we were told to pay a fee for cleansing the temple due to our presence."
Police Action and Legal Proceedings
Following the complaint, a formal case was filed against six individuals, including Narayanappa, under relevant sections of the law pertaining to caste-based discrimination and obstruction of religious rights. The arrest underscores the legal consequences for such discriminatory acts, which violate constitutional guarantees of equality and freedom of religion.
Authorities have emphasized that such incidents will not be tolerated, and investigations are ongoing to ensure justice for the affected couple. This case serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges faced by marginalized communities in accessing public spaces and religious institutions.
