CHENNAI: The Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) will launch direct action against untouchability in 31 places in 21 districts on December 25, Venmani Martyrs Day, when 44 Dalits were burnt to death in 1968.Talking to reporters, DYFI state secretary S. Kannan and president S.G. Ramesh Babu said untouchability was being practised in eight forms in the State. Besides being denied entry into temples, in some places Dalits were not allowed to use common roads.
“They can neither bathe in village tanks nor use water for other purposes. They cannot visit a barber’s shop or use footwear. In many places they are served tea in separate cups.”
Mr. Kannan said DYFI cadre would launch direct action in 21 places and organise demonstration in 10 others.
Mr. Babu said consistent efforts by his organisation had secured temple entry rights for the Dalits at Kokkarayanpet in Tiruchengode taluk. On Tuesday, the Iswaran temple authorities entered into an agreement with the DYFI for allowing all sections into the temple.
Mr. Kannan said the government should take all steps to ensure that all forms of untouchability were eradicated in the State. “Dalits should be allowed to participate in public events.”
No comments:
Post a Comment