Mahadalit Families Protest Uniform Discrimination at Anganwadi Centre in Sasaram
On Thursday, residents of Sirisiya Mahadalit Tola staged a protest at the Kargahar block office in Sasaram, Rohtas district, accusing officials of discrimination and intimidation over a uniform distribution dispute at a local Anganwadi centre. The protesters claimed that on May 18, parents were called to the centre, asked to sign distribution registers, and given uniforms for 14 children enrolled at the facility. However, the next day, the children were allegedly asked to remove the dresses at school and sent back after officials claimed they were not officially enrolled.
Escalation After Media Coverage
The issue escalated after drawing media attention. Residents alleged that authorities attempted to dismiss the claims as false and warned families of legal action. The aggrieved families submitted a written complaint to the block development officer (BDO), demanding that the matter be forwarded to the district magistrate for further investigation.
Baban Musahar, who led the protest, stated that many residents were unable to file written complaints due to illiteracy, leading to a tense exchange with officials. Protesters accused the administration of humiliating Mahadalit families and threatened to approach the SC/ST Commission in Patna if no action is taken.
Official Response
BDO Ajit Kumar said that the child development project office has been operating from a rented building in the market for nearly two months and that the matter falls under the CDPO’s jurisdiction. He added that the administration would look into the complaint and take appropriate action.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about caste-based discrimination and administrative insensitivity in rural welfare programmes. The protesters have demanded a fair inquiry and strict action against those responsible for the alleged humiliation.
