A wave of outrage tore through the Bhutdi village in Gujarat’s Junagadh district on Thursday after a group of Dalits (Scheduled caste community) were allegedly denied from participating in a temple feast during a religious function. The incident has triggered sharp reactions locally, and has put the spotlight on caste-based discrimination.
As per reports, the incident transpired at a local temple during a Patotsav and Pran Pratishthan ceremony, where tensions flared between villagers over the treatment of devotees belonging to the Dalit community. According to complaints, the persons belonging to the community were humiliated, and were barred from joining the communal meal on equal terms.
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Complainant named Ajaybhai Chaturbhai Boricha
One Ajaybhai Chaturbai Boricha filed the complaint, alleging that the members of the SC community were singled out upon arriving at the temple to receive prasad. The accused, as alleged in the complaint, insisted that they remain separate from other attendees and not participate in the feast alongside them.
Other victims claimed that the situation took a worse turn when plates and utensils were snatched from their hands, thereby barring them from eating. Reportedly, the incident caused distress and anger among those present, particularly as it took place during a religious gathering meant to foster unity.
Dalits asked to bring own utensils from home
Another complainant named Umesh Nagwan expressed deep dismay over the treatment meted out during the event. He said that Dalit attendees were made to sit separately, were served water in isolation, and were even asked to bring their own utensils from home. He remarked that such practices, despite decades of independence, reflect a troubling persistence of untouchability in parts of society. He added that a First Information Report (FIR) had been lodged in connection with the incident and that the affected community is seeking justice.
5 booked
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The local police said they have booked a case against five persons under relevant provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act 1989, along with sections pertaining to criminal intimidation and intentional insult. Meanwhile, the district administration officials have stepped in to prevent the situation from escalating, while law enforcement authorities have begun recording the statements of the eyewitnesses.
The police assured that a probe is being conducted to unearth the sequence of events and verify the allegations.