In a significant demonstration against caste-based discrimination, Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam (DVK) president Kolathur Mani spearheaded a protest in front of the Coimbatore district collectorate on Monday. He leveled serious allegations that practices of untouchability, including the double-tumbler system and buses refusing to enter certain villages, have resurfaced in Tamil Nadu.
Allegations of Official Inaction and Systemic Failure
Kolathur Mani expressed deep frustration over the lack of official response to repeated petitions on these issues. He stated that despite numerous complaints, no concrete action had been taken, and officials were shirking their social duty. His demands were unequivocal: cases must be registered and chargesheets filed against district collectors, superintendents of police, and other concerned officials for their failure to act on petitions regarding untouchability.
Speaking to reporters, Mani warned that casteists and caste associations were actively working to drag society backward. He provided a critical analysis of the evolution of such associations, noting, “While caste associations initially existed for the abolition of caste, the restoration of rights and progress, a situation has emerged in which those involved in illicit liquor sales, usury and running colleges are starting caste associations.”
Caste Associations and Misuse of Power
Mani further alleged that organizations operating under the banner of caste associations were repeating the historical atrocities once associated with Brahminism. He pointed to the commercialization of caste, citing examples like matrimonial services being run along caste lines.
The DVK leader also accused dominant castes of consolidating power through political appointments. He claimed that individuals from these castes, upon securing ministerial positions in their districts, were filling government offices with members of their own community. These officials, he alleged, often act as caste champions rather than public servants, behaving with arrogance under the belief that their ministerial patrons will shield them from accountability. Mani urged the Chief Minister to take serious note of these allegations and initiate appropriate action.
Scale of the Protest and Public Sentiment
The protest highlighted significant public concern over the issue. Around 500 people, including women and children, participated in the demonstration, underscoring the widespread discontent regarding the resurgence of discriminatory practices. The protestors united under the core demand for strict legal action against individuals involved in caste discrimination and the harassment of people from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities.
The event in Coimbatore serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges in eradicating deep-rooted social inequalities, despite legal frameworks and progressive policies.
