Mysuru Officials Advocate for Collective Effort to Eliminate Untouchability
In a significant address at an awareness workshop held at Kalamandir in Mysuru, B Basavaraju, Deputy Director of the Department of Women and Child Development, underscored the urgent need for united social action to eradicate untouchability. He expressed deep concern over the persistence of the caste system in what he described as a modern and progressive society, calling it a critical issue that demands immediate attention.
Grassroots Awareness and Community Engagement Essential
Basavaraju emphasized that building an egalitarian society requires a collective commitment from every segment of society. He highlighted the importance of grassroots awareness and community engagement as fundamental tools to dismantle long-standing social barriers and promote equality. According to him, these efforts are vital for creating a more inclusive and just social fabric.
He specifically called upon anganwadi workers to take an active role in educating people about the severe social consequences of illegal discriminatory practices. By doing so, they can help foster a culture of respect and equality at the community level.
Government Measures and Institutional Support
Joint Director of the Social Welfare Department, B Rangegowda, detailed the government's institutional measures aimed at preventing discrimination. He pointed out that the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement was established with the explicit purpose of safeguarding constitutional rights and addressing cases of caste-based discrimination effectively.
Rangegowda highlighted the crucial role of anganwadi workers in connecting marginalized communities, particularly those from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), with government welfare schemes. Through door-to-door outreach and targeted awareness programmes, these workers serve as a vital link between the government and the people, ensuring that benefits reach those who need them most.
Legal Provisions and Enforcement
Anushree Rani, Deputy Superintendent of Police in the Civil Rights Enforcement Directorate, spoke about the importance of protecting marginalized communities through legal means. She acknowledged that while social awareness and educational opportunities have improved over time, strict legal provisions remain necessary to deter discrimination and ensure justice.
Rani warned that offences against SC/ST individuals invite severe penalties under the law, underscoring the seriousness with which such cases are treated. She urged officials to spread legal awareness widely and ensure equal access to public spaces for all citizens, regardless of their caste background.
Furthermore, she encouraged anganwadi workers to promptly report any instances of social injustices they encounter. By doing so, authorities can take swift and necessary legal action, thereby reinforcing the message that discrimination will not be tolerated in society.
The workshop served as a platform to reinforce the collective responsibility of government officials, anganwadi workers, and the broader community in the fight against untouchability. It highlighted the dual approach of combining social awareness with robust legal enforcement to achieve lasting change.
