A purported video of the incident went viral on November 27, (Wednesday), which shows multiple accused people repeatedly beating up Jatav despite he pleads them to stop.

As per a report in the Indian Express, the victim Narad Jatav visited his maternal uncle’s home in Indragiri village on Tuesday evening, unaware of the horrific fate that awaited him. A long-standing dispute over a pathway and bore well had been simmering, and it finally boiled over into violence. The attack, allegedly orchestrated by village sarpanch Padam Dhakad and his family, was sparked by an argument over a bore well pipeline that Narad had removed. The situation quickly escalated, with the accused surrounding Narad and brutally assaulting him. Despite witnessing the attack, the perpetrators showed no mercy, stopping only when Narad succumbed to his injuries.

Victim’s brother Shailesh claimed that, “The land over which there is a fight is in our name. It is registered in the name of my mother, aunt and other family members. That bore well was made under a partnership, but they encroached on it. We protested before the authorities but nobody listened to us.”

However, Police arrived at the scene after receiving reports of the assault and later transferred the body to the district medical college for a post-mortem examination.

FIR registered against 8 individuals

Superintendent of Police Aman Singh Rathore confirmed that a case has been registered against eight individuals, including the sarpanch, under charges of murder. Four people have been arrested so far, according to Indian Express.

After the incident came to light, MP State Congress president Jitu Patwari wrote on X, “On one hand, the whole country is celebrating Constitution Day, people are talking about the ideas of Baba Saheb Ambedkar, and on the other hand, under BJP rule, a Dalit brother was beaten to death with sticks. Today, the BJP rule has become synonymous with exploitation and atrocities on Dalits. The state’s Home Minister is holidaying abroad, and the mafia flourishing under his protection.”

भाजपा की घोर विडंबना देखिए!

एक तरफ़ पूरा देश संविधान दिवस मना रहा है, बाबा साहेब अंबेडकर के विचारों की बातें हो रही हैं, और दूसरी तरफ़ भाजपा के राज में मेरे दलित भाई को लाठियों से पीट-पीटकर मौत के घाट उतार दिया गया।

भाजपा का राज आज दलितों के लिए शोषण और अत्याचार का पर्याय बन… pic.twitter.com/S2qrPecalF

— Jitendra (Jitu) Patwari (@jitupatwari) November 27, 2024

Moreover, while condemning the killing, former chief minister Kamal Nath wrote on X that, “A Dalit youth was beaten to death with sticks in Indergarh of Shivpuri. After this murder in broad daylight, it has been proved once again that Dalits are not safe in Madhya Pradesh.”

शिवपुरी के इंदरगढ़ में एक दलित युवक की लाठी-डंडों से पीट-पीटकर हत्या कर दी गई। दिनदहाड़े हुए इस हत्याकांड के बाद एक बार फिर साबित हो गया है कि मध्य प्रदेश में दलित वर्ग सुरक्षित नहीं है।

कोई दिन ऐसा नहीं जाता जिस दिन प्रदेश में दलितों पर अत्याचार की घटना नहीं होती हो।

भाजपा के…

— Kamal Nath (@OfficeOfKNath) November 27, 2024

The brutal killing of Dalit man Narad Jatav in Madhya Pradesh highlights the concern for caste-based violence across the country, particularly in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh.

Notably, Sabrang India in its previous report highlighted the rising violence with Dalits in Madhya Pradesh, The rising number of atrocities against Dalits, particularly in BJP-ruled states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, paints a disturbing picture of India’s ongoing struggle with caste-based violence. Despite the enactment of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, the implementation of this crucial law remains weak, with high crime rates, low conviction rates, and inadequate special courts hindering justice. Uttar Pradesh continues to lead in the number of atrocities against Dalits, followed by Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, underlining the urgent need for systemic change.

Related:

BJP-ruled states account for highest Dalit violence cases, UP on top, MP records highest reported crimes against STs

Accused of not voting for “free ration”, Dalit man beaten brutally in UP

Hate Watch: violence against Dalits fails to get attention

The post Dalit Man Lynched in MP: video shows Dalit Man beaten to death in Shivpuri district, Sarpanch, king held appeared first on SabrangIndia.

The victim while speaking to the media identified the accused as Vishalbhai Goswami, Manishbhai Goswami, Ajju Bhai Jadeja, and Ratan Singh, who allegedly assaulted her family members. In a statement to the media, she narrated how the accused attacked her father, uncle, brother, and on her.

 

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However, while reacting to the discrimination and violence faced by the Dalit family in Gujarat’s Kutch district, who were assaulted by accused belonging to the upper caste for attending a Garba program, Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani condemned the incident and posted on social media platform X that “The country became independent but our society is still in the grip of untouchability. In Gujarat’s Kutch district, a Dalit family was beaten by upper caste people because they had gone there for the Garba programme.”

Link:

देश तो आज़ाद हुआ लेकिन हमारा समाज अभी भी छुआछूत की चपेट में है।

गुजरात के कच्छ जिले में एक दलित परिवार को कही जाने वाली ऊंची जाति के लोगों ने इस लिए पीट दिया क्यूं की वह गरबा कार्यक्रम के लिए वहा गए थे। pic.twitter.com/HijofDoXtp

— Jignesh Mevani (@jigneshmevani80) October 9, 2024

The assault on the Dalit family in Gujarat’s Kutch highlights the alarming rise in violence against marginalized communities, driven by deep-rooted caste system and religious discrimination. This incident, along with the targeting of Muslim youth in UP and MP for participating in cultural events, underscores a broader societal issue that urgently requires action from the BJP-led government in all three states where atrocities with Dalits and Muslims have reached on peak.

Related:

Hate Watch: Navratri events marred by targeted attacks on Muslim youth and artist

VHP leader assaults Muslim youth attempting to enter Navratri event in UP

Secularism under siege: post-election realities for Indian Muslims

The post A Dalit family beaten up and abused for attending Garba event in Gujarat appeared first on SabrangIndia.

These incidents not only highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms and accountability but also reflect the pervasive caste biases that continue to manifest in violence and discrimination. As communities rally for justice, these cases serve as a clarion call to confront the cultural and institutional barriers that allow such atrocities to occur, demanding immediate action to protect the rights and dignity of Dalit individuals, particularly women and children.

Incident 1:

In the first case, a 47-year-old Dalit farmer named Ramesh Chand allegedly died by suicide in his home in a Kasganj village on October 7, a day after he was forcibly removed from a Ram Lila event. According to the report of The Indian Express, spectators at the event complained that Ramesh had been standing too close to the stage, and some alleged that he might have been intoxicated. As a result, police personnel forced him out of the event, which reportedly caused Ramesh immense distress.

As per multiple media reports, Chand was allegedly kicked, punched, and humiliated by local policemen. According to Ram Rati, Ramesh’s wife, he attended the Ramlila around 9 PM on Sunday and sat on an empty chair. His presence on the chair angered the event organisers, who then called constables Bahadur and Vikram Chaudhary to “remove Chand.” The officers reportedly assaulted him brutally under the organisers’ instructions, using casteist slurs as they did so. Ram Rati recounted that the officers pulled a gamcha (a traditional cloth) around Ramesh’s neck, threw him to the ground, and kicked and punched him.

In a state of despair, Ramesh pleaded with the bystanders to understand what he had done wrong, but received no response. He rushed home to tell his wife about the humiliation he suffered and subsequently went to his room. Tragically, Ram Rati discovered her husband hanging from the ceiling the next morning. Ramesh Chand was a farmer, survived by his wife and their four minor children, including two daughters.

Following his death, family members and members of the Dalit community staged a protest on Monday, demanding accountability for the officers involved. In response to the escalating tensions, a substantial police presence was deployed to the area. Ramesh’s body has been sent for a post-mortem examination, and senior police officials have initiated an investigation into the incident. The protests were called off only after senior police officials intervened, and two constables involved in the incident were transferred to Police Lines.

Kasganj Circle Officer Achal Chauhan confirmed that the post-mortem report indicated death by hanging, with no signs of external injuries. However, Chauhan added that the exact motive behind the suicide remains under investigation.

Additional Superintendent of Police Rajesh Bharti had also commented on the incident, stating that Ramesh had climbed onto the stage in an intoxicated state and had been removed at the request of the organisers and spectators. He added that Ramesh returned home safely, and by 6 AM on Monday, he was found hanging in his house.

Meanwhile, SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav has condemned the ruling BJP government, accusing it of promoting a culture of humiliation against Dalits. In a statement, Yadav expressed grief over the incident and criticised the “hegemonic mind-set” fostered under the current government, particularly towards the Dalit community.

Shocked and traumatised after allegedly being kicked, punched and humiliated by some policemen for sitting on a chair at the local #Ramlila, a 48-year-old #Dalit man went home and hanged himself to death at #SalempurVivi village under #Soron police station of #Kasganj district,… pic.twitter.com/tVPlEHmIs1

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) October 8, 2024

Incident 2:

In a separate and equally tragic incident, a 14-year-old Dalit girl from a village in Bulandshahr district was allegedly gang-raped by two men from the upper caste community. The accused, Naresh Singh and Harvindra Kumar, who work as drivers, reportedly assaulted the girl over the course of several weeks, offering her Rs. 100 at times to remain silent as per a report of Times of India. The crime came to light on October 5, when the girl’s mother discovered the money in her school bag and questioned her. The girl then revealed the harrowing details of how the men had first assaulted her two weeks prior and had continued the abuse, threatening her to keep quiet.

Following the family’s complaint, an FIR was registered under relevant sections of the law, including the SC/ST Act. Both accused were arrested, and the girl was sent for a medical examination, which confirmed the assault. Her condition has been reported as stable, and an investigation into the case is ongoing.

Circle Officer (Sikandrabad) Purnima Singh stated on October 8 that following the family’s complaint, an FIR was lodged against the two accused, Naresh Singh and Harvindra Kumar, both in their 30s, under BNS Section 70 (2) (gang rape) and Section 3 (2) (v) of the SC/ST Act. Singh added that the girl’s father had passed away a few years ago due to illness, leaving her mother, who works as a daily wage labourer, to support the family.

Both accused, who work as drivers, reside in the same locality as the survivor. The girl was promptly sent for a medical examination, and her condition is reported to be stable. An investigation into the matter is currently underway.Top of Form

#Horrific A 14-year-old Dalit girl from Bulandshahr was repeatedly gang-raped by two caste Hindu men, accused Naresh Singh and Harvindra kumar arrested. pic.twitter.com/QBarD4gzwf

— The Dalit Voice (@ambedkariteIND) October 9, 2024

Unpacking recent anti-Dalit incidents in Uttar Pradesh

Despite constitutional safeguards, Dalits often find themselves on the receiving end of brutal violence, often without swift or meaningful justice. Both the above-mentioned cases involve marginalised victims and highlight the ongoing struggle for dignity and safety within Dalit communities in the state.

Uttar Pradesh has become a focal point for the alarming rise in anti-Dalit incidents, showcasing a troubling trend of violence, discrimination, and systemic oppression against the Dalit community. This northern Indian state consistently reports the highest number of atrocities against Dalits in the country, reflecting the entrenched caste biases that continue to shape social dynamics.

Over the past two months, Uttar Pradesh has witnessed a shocking surge of anti-Dalit incidents that reveal the deep-rooted issues of caste-based violence and discrimination within society. In one tragic case, a Dalit school teacher named Sunil Kumar, along with his wife Poonam and their two young daughters, was brutally shot dead in Amethi on October 2, 2024. This horrific event unfolded just a month after the family had lodged a First Information Report (FIR) against an individual who had threatened them, indicating a growing sense of insecurity and helplessness among Dalit families in the state.

The violence against Dalits extends beyond the tragic murder in Amethi. In another alarming incident, a 16-year-old Dalit boy died after being allegedly tortured by police in Kheri. Picked up in connection with a theft case, he endured severe beatings while in custody. Despite being transferred to a hospital in Lucknow for treatment, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after, sparking protests from his family and the local community. Their demands for accountability reflect the frustration and anger felt by many against a system that seems to perpetuate such atrocities.

Additionally, the academic sphere has not been immune to the pervasive caste discrimination plaguing Uttar Pradesh. Shivam Kumar, a Dalit research scholar at Banaras Hindu University, experienced casteist harassment from a senior professor during an academic meeting. The professor’s violent outburst, which included throwing food and hurling slurs at Shivam, underscores the troubling reality that even educational institutions are rife with discriminatory practices.

Moreover, in Meerut, a Dalit student faced brutal treatment at the hands of a teacher who violently assaulted him with a pipe, using caste-based slurs in the process. Despite the boy’s obvious injuries and the family’s complaints, the teacher threatened him and dismissed the allegations, illustrating the widespread culture of impunity that allows such behaviour to persist.

These incidents are just a glimpse into the systemic violence and discrimination faced by Dalits in Uttar Pradesh. They reflect a broader societal issue that requires urgent attention and action to combat the ingrained prejudices that fuel these tragic events. The pattern of violence against Dalits, particularly in a state where caste dynamics are so deeply entrenched, demands a comprehensive response from both authorities and communities to ensure justice and equality for all.

A need for systematic change to address the cycle of violence against Dalits in Uttar Pradesh

Recently only, a union government report published by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment had revealed that the state of Uttar Pradesh reported a staggering 12,287 cases accounting for 23.78% of the total 51,656 cases registered under the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, (PoA Act) in the year 2022.  (The detailed report may be read here)

The vulnerability of Dalits in Uttar Pradesh is compounded by their marginalised status, which exposes them to targeted violence from upper-caste individuals. Attacks on Dalits are frequently motivated by a desire to reinforce caste hierarchies and exert control over marginalised communities. The pervasive culture of impunity allows perpetrators to act with little fear of legal repercussions, further entrenching the cycle of violence.

In addition to physical assaults, the economic and social marginalisation of Dalits in Uttar Pradesh further exacerbates their vulnerability to violence. Dalits often face discrimination in employment, education, and access to basic services, perpetuating cycles of poverty and exclusion. This systemic inequality fosters an environment where violence against Dalits is tolerated, and their grievances are often dismissed or minimised.

The response from law enforcement and the judicial system has been criticised for its inadequacy. Despite existing legal protections for Dalits, including provisions under the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, the implementation of these laws remains inconsistent. Police indifference, bureaucratic hurdles, and a lack of sensitivity towards victims contribute to a culture of impunity that emboldens perpetrators of anti-Dalit violence.

Addressing the escalating violence against Dalits in Uttar Pradesh requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses legal reforms, community education, and social awareness initiatives. It is imperative to strengthen the enforcement of existing laws, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. Furthermore, fostering a culture of respect and equality, coupled with advocacy for the rights of marginalised communities, is crucial to dismantling the systemic barriers that perpetuate caste-based violence.

In conclusion, the ongoing violence against Dalits in Uttar Pradesh is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. As society grapples with the realities of caste-based discrimination, it is essential to amplify the voices of Dalit communities, recognise their rights, and work collectively towards a future where equality and justice prevail for all. Only through sustained efforts can we hope to dismantle the structures that enable violence against Dalits and foster a more inclusive and equitable society.

Related:

Escalating anti-Dalit violence in India: A disturbing surge of brutality and discrimination since July 2024

Caste and Indifference: Two separate incidents of rape against minor Dalit girls in UP and Bihar receive no media coverage, protest or outrage

MP diverted SC/ST welfare funds for cow welfare, atrocities against Dalits reported across country

The post Uttar Pradesh in crisis: The ongoing struggle for Dalit rights and dignity, multiple anti-Dalit incidents emerge from the BJP-ruled state appeared first on SabrangIndia.

This report chronicles a disturbing series of anti-Dalit incidents that have occurred since July, shedding light on the pervasive nature of caste-based violence in contemporary India. These incidents, spanning from the southern state of Karnataka to the northern territories of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, as well as eastern states like Bihar, reveal a grim pattern of violence and systemic oppression against individuals from the Dalit community. Victims range from children to the elderly, showing that no age group is spared from the cruelty rooted in caste prejudice. The atrocities include not only physical violence but also psychological torture, sexual assault, and social exclusion, underscoring the pervasive and multi-faceted nature of caste-based discrimination in contemporary India.

From Karnataka, in the southern part of the country, three incidents of murder and assault have highlighted the continuing dangers faced by Dalits even in everyday situations. The cases of a young Dalit woman poisoned to death following an inter-caste marriage and an elderly Dalit man beaten for seeking shelter during a rainstorm starkly illustrate the lethal consequences of caste hatred.

In the north, Uttar Pradesh has once again proven to be a hotbed of caste-based violence. The incidents there range from the rape of a minor Dalit girl, whose pleas for justice were ignored by the police, to the horrific act of forcing a Dalit boy to drink urine as a form of punishment. These crimes highlight a culture of impunity where caste-based violence is often dismissed or inadequately addressed by the authorities.

In Uttarakhand, Dalit families have been subjected to a social boycott, effectively cutting them off from essential resources, simply for failing to participate in a religious event due to illness. This act of collective punishment, sanctioned by the local panchayat, demonstrates the extent to which caste hierarchies are enforced in rural India, where non-compliance with oppressive traditions can lead to severe and life-threatening consequences.

In Bihar, the rape of a Dalit girl and the subsequent threats made by police to her family reveal a disturbing collusion between perpetrators and law enforcement. Similarly, in Madhya Pradesh, the torture of a Dalit man by police officers, who allegedly used casteist slurs and inflicted severe physical harm, points to the institutionalization of caste discrimination within the very systems meant to protect citizens.

These incidents, scattered across the diverse geographic and cultural landscape of India, reveal a grim reality: caste-based violence and discrimination continue to be a pervasive issue in the country. It is essential to be highlighted here that out of all the states from where these incidents have been report, only the state of Karnataka is being governed by the Congress party, rest of the states are ruled by Bharatiya Janata Party and their allies. Despite legal protections and decades of social reform movements, Dalits remain vulnerable to extreme forms of violence, and the perpetrators often act with impunity. This series of attacks, occurring within a period of two months, serves as a stark reminder that the fight against caste oppression is far from over and requires urgent, comprehensive action at both societal and governmental levels.

Caste-based murders and brutal assaults:

• July 23, 2024: In a shocking incident of caste-based violence, a 15-year-old Dalit boy from Shravasti district, Uttar Pradesh, was forcibly made to drink urine by three upper-caste youths. As per the report of the Times of India, the incident occurred on July 23, 2024, when the victim, who works as a technician setting up sound mixers and audio systems for events, was on his way home after work. The trio, identified as Kishan Tiwari, Dilip Mishra, and Satyam Tiwari, accosted the boy while in an inebriated state. According to the police, the incident was triggered by the boy’s family charging the accused extra for an audio system they had installed for a function. Enraged by this, Dilip Mishra urinated into a liquor bottle while Satyam and Kishan pinned the boy down, forcing the bottle into his mouth. The trio also thrashed the minor and filmed the entire incident, which later circulated on social media. The victim narrated the ordeal to his elder brother after reaching home, following which his family lodged a police complaint the next day. The police conducted a preliminary investigation and arrested the three accused based on eyewitness accounts and the viral video. SHO Mahimanath Upadhyay confirmed the arrests and stated that the incident stemmed from a prior dispute involving a DJ service run by the victim’s family.

• August 18, 2024: In Sanganal village, Yalaburga taluk of Karnataka’s Koppal district, a 26-year-old Dalit man named Yamanurswamy Bandiha was brutally stabbed to death by a barber at a local salon. According to a report of the Observer Post, the incident unfolded when Yamanurswamy visited the salon for a haircut, and the salon owner, Mudakappa Hadapad, demanded payment before the service. Despite assurances from Yamanurswamy, Mudakappa made incendiary remarks based on his caste, escalating the argument. In a fit of rage, Mudakappa stabbed Yamanurswamy with a pair of scissors. The victim was rushed to a government hospital, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries. The Yelburga police registered a case under Section 193 (murder) of the BNS and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, leading to the arrest of the accused. Local Dalits have demanded justice for the victim’s family, and the District Social Welfare Department has been informed to provide compensation.

• September 3, 2024: In Vithalapura village of Gangavathi taluk, Karnataka, a 21-year-old Dalit woman named Mariamma from the Madiga community was allegedly poisoned to death following her inter-caste marriage. Mariamma had married Hanumayya, a youth from the Scheduled Tribe (ST) community, in April 2023 after a two-year relationship. However, her father has accused 13 members of Hanumayya’s family of harassing Mariamma, subjecting her to severe caste-based discrimination and dowry demands. As per the report of the Observer Post, the father of the victim alleged that she was physically assaulted before being poisoned by her in-laws. Initially, her husband’s family claimed she had ingested poison while working on the farm, but Mariamma’s father suspected foul play and filed a complaint with the Gangavathi police. The authorities have arrested two individuals for questioning, and a case has been registered. Mariamma’s body has been sent for a post-mortem examination as investigations continue.

• September 4, 2024: In a disturbing incident in Kokkada, Belthangady of Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district, a 67-year-old Dalit elder named Mancha Mogera was viciously assaulted by a shopkeeper named Ramanna Gowda. The attack occurred when Mogera sought shelter from heavy rain and asked to rest near Gowda’s shop. Instead of offering help, Gowda hurled casteist slurs at Mogera and attacked him with a wooden pole, striking him on the head and back. Mogera was immediately rushed to Kokkada Government Hospital for first aid and later transferred to Belthangady Government Hospital for further treatment. The Dharmasthala police have recorded Mogera’s statement and initiated an investigation into the incident.

In #Karnataka‘s #DakshinaKannada, a 67-year-old #Dalit elder, Mancha Mogera, was brutally assaulted by a shopkeeper in #Kokkada, #Belthangady. The incident occurred when Mogera, seeking shelter from heavy rain, asked to rest near the shop.

The accused, identified as Ramanna… pic.twitter.com/qkWDEEe2tr

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) September 4, 2024

Sexual Violence and Police Complicity:

• August 30, 2024: In another chilling case from Bihar’s Gaya district, a Dalit girl was raped by two men, Ranjit and Sachin, at her home. Despite the gravity of the crime, when the victim’s family attempted to file an FIR, the police allegedly threatened them with imprisonment if they pursued the case. 

In #Bihar‘s #Gaya, a #Dalit girl was raped by Ranjit and Sachin at her home.

One of the accused was caught and taken to police station for filing FIR.

The police threatened the victim and her family saying that they might be jailed if FIR was filed. pic.twitter.com/AQdZdGoNYX

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) August 29, 2024

• September 2, 2024: The scourge of sexual violence against Dalit women remains rampant, with authorities often complicit in delaying justice. In Uttar Pradesh’s Barabanki district, a 16-year-old Dalit girl was kidnapped and raped by a businessman’s son. The victim was reportedly made to wait at the police station for over 10 hours, where officers pressured her into a compromise rather than taking swift action against the perpetrator.

#Horrific On 22nd August, in Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh, a businessman’s son kidnapped a 16-year-old Dalit girl and raped her. The victim said that she sat in the police station for 10 hours. Instead of taking action, the police forced a compromise…#DalitLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/XgIoLU6fAt

— The Dalit Voice (@ambedkariteIND) September 2, 2024

Social Boycotts and Discrimination:

• July 17, 2024: On the night of July 17, a 24-year-old Dalit youth named Ajay Parmar was violently assaulted by a group of upper-caste men in Sayebapur village, Himatnagar taluka, Sabarkantha district, North Gujarat. The incident allegedly stemmed from Parmar’s Instagram profile picture, which featured him wearing a traditional headgear and sunglasses. According to the FIR filed on July 18, Parmar, who works as an auto rickshaw driver, was confronted by two men from the Darbar community, who identify themselves as Kshatriyas, near the Navanagar bus stand. The men reportedly objected to Parmar’s display picture and demanded that he remove it. As per the report of Deccan Herald, the confrontation quickly escalated into physical violence as the men beat him. Parmar managed to escape and left his auto rickshaw behind. He was later informed by a friend that a group of 20-25 men from the Darbar community were waiting to attack him. Fearing for his life, Parmar called his father and brother for help. The group subsequently confronted Parmar and his family, slapping and abusing them. Despite calling the police, help arrived only after an hour. Parmar, the only Dalit resident in a village predominantly inhabited by the Darbar community, detailed the harassment and violence he endured. The FIR names four accused: Kirpalsinh Rathod, Manusinh Rathod, his son Hitendrasinh Rathod, and Shukalsinh Rathod. Police Sub-Inspector Sanjay Goswami from the Himatnagar rural police station spoke to the Deccan Herald and confirmed that the accused have fled the village and that an investigation is underway.

• July 18, 2024: In Subhai village of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, Dalit families faced a severe social boycott after a member of their community, Pushkar Lal, could not attend a religious event due to illness. Traditionally, Dalit families in the village are responsible for playing the drum at various social, cultural, and religious festivals. Following Pushkar Lal’s absence, the local panchayat announced a boycott against all Scheduled Caste (SC) families. As per the Observer Pots, this boycott imposed harsh restrictions, barring them from using forest and water resources, buying essentials from shops, commuting in vehicles, and even visiting temples. A video surfaced showing a panchayat member threatening villagers with similar consequences if they did not comply with the boycott order. In response, the affected families lodged a complaint at the Joshimath Police Station, specifically naming Ramkrishna Khandwal and Yashvir Singh as responsible for orchestrating the boycott.
  
• August 17, 2024: In KV Kuppam taluk, Tamil Nadu’s Vellore district, a Kaliamman temple near Gemmankuppam village was demolished by a group of caste Hindus, following a dispute over the exclusion of Dalits from the temple’s Aadi month festivities. As reported by the Observer Post, the dispute began when Dalits, who make up roughly 50% of the village population, were barred from participating in the festivities scheduled for August 2. Despite being under police protection, the temple was demolished using earthmovers, and the idol was removed on August 6. The Dalits alleged that the demolition was supported by the then jurisdictional DSP Ravichandran, although the DSP denied these allegations, stating that the case had been handed over to the revenue department. The caste Hindus, including members of the Vanniyar, Yadav, Chettiar, and Naidu communities, argued that the temple was built solely by a caste Hindu, D Loganathan, who claimed that Goddess Kaliamman instructed him in a dream to exclude Dalits from the festivities. The demolition has sparked controversy and legal action, with Gudiyatham revenue officials scheduling peace committee meetings to address the issue.

Violence in Educational and Public Spaces:

• July 21, 2024: Anish Kumar, a 24-year-old Dalit youth, was brutally attacked by an armed gang in Malagalu, Kanakapura, Karnataka, on July 21, 2024. The assailants severed Anish’s left hand in a shocking act of violence. The attack stemmed from an argument between Anish and members of a different community earlier that day. The trouble began when a group of youths, including Anish, were standing near Javanammanadoddi Cheenarakuppe Circle and chatting. A group of upper-caste individuals passing by questioned the youths about their presence there, leading to a heated argument. Though the argument initially deescalated, the accused returned two hours later armed with lethal weapons and attacked Anish and others who were present. In the ensuing violence, several people, including three women, sustained severe injuries and were rushed to a hospital. Anish’s left hand was severed during the attack. The police registered a case against the accused, identified as Harsha and six others, under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act. Additional police forces were deployed in the area to prevent further violence, and senior police officials visited the hospital to speak with the victims.

An armed gang allegedly severed the left hand of Anish Kumar, belonging to a #Dalit community, sitting outside his house on Siddappaji Temple Road in #Malagalu, #Kanakapura town near #Bengaluru. The attack was the outcome of an argument. Several others who came to his rescue were… pic.twitter.com/0QhlAJMb6b

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) July 23, 2024

• July 23, 2024: The violence extends to educational institutions, where Dalit students are subjected to humiliating and abusive treatment. In Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, a Dalit minor was brutally beaten by a schoolteacher after refusing to pluck fruits for the teacher. 

A #Dalit minor boy brutally beaten by a school teacher. His mistake was that he refused to pluck lemons and Jamuns from the tree in the school for the teacher. The incident happened in #Bareilly district of #UttarPradesh. pic.twitter.com/ZgKnpoaKrp

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) July 23, 2024

• July 24, 2024: Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has been engulfed in controversy following the discovery of objectionable graffiti at Kaveri Hostel. The slogans, which included “Chamar Quit India,” “Dalit Quit India,” “Brahmin-Bania Zindabad,” and “Hindu-RSS Zindabad,” have incited widespread protests and condemnation among the student body. Dhananjay, President of the JNU Students Union (JNUSU), strongly condemned the incident, emphasizing the university’s commitment to equality and denouncing the divisive nature of the slogans. “We strongly oppose such divisive actions,” he asserted. In response to the outcry, university officials have ordered the immediate removal of the graffiti and are taking steps to prevent future incidents. The administration is considering additional security measures, including the installation of CCTV cameras in the hostel to enhance surveillance and security.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (#JNU) is facing controversy after discovering objectionable slogans, including ‘Chamar Quit India’, ‘Dalit Quit India’, ‘Brahmin-Bania Zindabad’, and ‘Hindu-RSS Zindabad’, on the walls of #KaveriHostel. The incident has sparked protests and… pic.twitter.com/YHgX41Slu0

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) July 24, 2024

• July 25, 2024: A Dalit woman in Sikauhula village of Banda district, Uttar Pradesh, was allegedly assaulted and subjected to caste-based slurs by a farmer and his son on July 25, 2024. AS per the Observer Post, the incident occurred when the 36-year-old woman, who works as an agricultural labourer, attempted to collect water from the family’s tube well in Sikauhula village. The accused, Rajendra Singh and his son Jitendra Pratap Singh, reportedly objected to the woman using their tubewell and proceeded to assault her while hurling casteist slurs. The woman managed to escape and reported the incident to the local police station. An FIR was subsequently registered under various sections of the BNS and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Moni Nishad, the Station House Officer at Jaspura police station, confirmed that the accused had been identified but no arrests had been made at the time. The police are continuing their investigation into the incident.
• July 29, 2024: A Dalit groom and several guests were attacked during a wedding in Madakarimupr village, Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, after upper-caste men objected to the groom mounting a horse, a traditional practice. The incident took place under the jurisdiction of Khatauli Police Station. According to reports, the altercation began when the groom’s party played “casteist” songs during the horse-mounting ceremony. However, the groom’s side claims that the upper-caste individuals were responsible for the provocation. The attack on the groom and his guests was violent, with several people being injured. The situation quickly escalated, and the police had to intervene to restore order. An FIR was lodged against 15-20 men under various sections of the IPC and SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act. Local authorities have assured the Dalit community that strict action will be taken against those responsible. The incident has once again highlighted the deep-rooted caste-based discrimination and violence that persists in rural parts of India.

Three people from the #Dalit community were injured during a wedding clash in #Madakarimupr village under #Khatauli Police Station jurisdiction, #Muzaffarnagar on Monday. The clash allegedly occurred when some upper-caste men objected to the groom mounting a horse, a traditional… pic.twitter.com/KGtyDja70j

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) July 16, 2024

• August 8, 2024: In another disturbing incident, a six-year-old Dalit child, a class one student, was reportedly forced to clean the school toilet by his teachers and later found locked in the school classroom after hours in Uttar Pradesh. As per the report of the Observer’s Post, the child’s mother filed a police complaint, alleging that the teachers, Principal Sandhya Jain and class teacher Ravita Rani, harboured prejudice against Dalit children, leading to repeated mistreatment of her son. When her son did not return home, she found him locked in the classroom after hearing his cries. Villagers and family members called the principal, and the classroom was eventually unlocked by Rani’s husband. The mother’s allegations indicate a pattern of discrimination and neglect. In response, Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) Sandeep Kumar announced that Principal Sandhya Jain had been suspended, and teacher Ravita Rani received an adverse entry in her service record. A two-member committee was appointed to investigate the incident, with a report expected within three days. The police are currently investigating the matter.

Brutal Attacks by Police:

• July 20, 2024: Rishipal, a Dalit man from Bhawarki Jadid village in Uttar Pradesh, has alleged that he was brutally tortured by police officers at the Dakiya Chowki police station after a domestic dispute with his wife. According to Rishipal, the ordeal began when he had an argument with his wife on July 20, 2024. In response, she went to the local police station to file a complaint. Later that day, around 5 PM, two constables, Jaidev Singh and Amit Kumar, came to his house and took him to the police station. Rishipal claims that around 1 AM, the officers, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, began questioning him about his caste. They then proceeded to subject him to brutal beatings, using fists, kicks, and sticks. He was reportedly injured in his private parts and fainted during the assault. When he regained consciousness, the officers forced him to massage their hands and feet throughout the night.

The following morning, Rishipal was released and returned home, where he showed his injuries to his wife. The incident quickly gained attention after a video of his injuries went viral on social media, sparking outrage within the Dalit community. In response to the protests, a case was filed against the two constables, and they, along with the chowki in-charge, were suspended. Bhim Army District President Sunil Sagar and other activists condemned the incident, demanding strict action against the police officers involved. CO Sangam Kumar confirmed that a medical examination of Rishipal had been conducted, and SP Vidya Sagar Mishra assured that the suspended officers would face a thorough investigation. 

उत्तर प्रदेश : जिला रामपुर में पुलिस ने दलित ऋषिपाल को चौकी में बंद करके थर्ड डिग्री दी। पत्नी ने उसकी शिकायत की थी। 2 पुलिसकर्मी जयदेव सिंह और अमित कुमार पर FIR दर्ज, दोनों सस्पेंड हुए।

दोनों पुलिसकर्मियों ने कहा था– “साले चमट्टे आज तू देख, ठाकुर के हाथ से कैसे पिटाई होती है” pic.twitter.com/9LV3rbNzXe

— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) July 23, 2024

• July 21, 2024: Rohit Valmiki, a Dalit sanitary worker in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, alleged that he was beaten by police personnel after overtaking their official vehicles. While on his way home on a motorcycle, Valmiki overtook vehicles belonging to the police and electricity departments. Following this, he claimed that some policemen accused him of reckless driving, verbally abused him, and took him to the police station where he was physically assaulted. Valmiki’s brother corroborated his account, stating that Rohit was indeed taken to the police station and thrashed by the officers. In response to the allegations, Superintendent of Police Agam Jain announced that the Sub Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP) is conducting an investigation. Jain assured that strict action would be taken after the investigation is completed.

A #Dalit sanitary worker, Rohit Valmiki, has alleged that he was beaten by #MPPolice personnel in #MadhyaPradesh’s #Khajuraho town for overtaking their official vehicles.

Rohit Valmiki claimed that while heading home on his motorcycle on July 21, he overtook vehicles belonging… pic.twitter.com/s6BmGfqwM4

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) July 24, 2024

• July 25, 2024: In a shocking incident, a Dalit mother and her minor son were brutally beaten by police officials inside the Katni GRP police station in Madhya Pradesh on July 25, 2024. The details of the incident were shared on social media, where the mother alleged that the police had physically assaulted her and her son within the police station premises. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice from various activists and members of the Dalit community. The reasons behind the assault have not been made clear, but the brutality of the act has led to widespread condemnation. The police have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident, and demands for a thorough investigation are growing louder.

#Horrific A shocking incident has emerged from Katni GRP police station in Madhya Pradesh, where a Dalit mother and her minor son were brutally beaten up by police officials inside the police station itself. Manuwadi media remains silent as usual…#DalitLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/sRoAyleKzo

— The Dalit Voice (@ambedkariteIND) August 28, 2024

No equality and justice for Dalits?

The pervasive nature of these atrocities—ranging from brutal assaults and forced social boycotts to systemic abuse by law enforcement—reveals a grim reality where the promise of constitutional safeguards remains largely unfulfilled for marginalized communities. The horrific incidents reported across various states, including Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, reflect a deeply rooted social malaise that continues to undermine the dignity and rights of Dalits.

Addressing this crisis requires more than mere acknowledgment; it demands a proactive and sustained commitment to reform. Immediate measures should include rigorous enforcement of existing laws, transparent investigations, and accountability for perpetrators, especially those in positions of power. Furthermore, there must be a societal shift towards recognizing and confronting caste-based discrimination in all its forms. Only through a united front, combining legal, social, and educational reforms, can India hope to dismantle the entrenched caste hierarchies that perpetuate such egregious violations of human rights and ensure that every citizen, regardless of caste, can live with dignity, equality and safety.

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The post Escalating anti-Dalit violence in India: A disturbing surge of brutality and discrimination since July 2024 appeared first on SabrangIndia.

A fact-finding report released by a citizens group of Madhya Pradesh in July 2024 – to which this author belongs – highlighted how the police and Madhya Pradesh government continuously deprived this family of Dalit labourers their right to justice, how Sagar police hurriedly closed the investigation into Anjana’s death, and concluded that Anjana purportedly jumped to her death. The police’s conclusion has been indignantly rejected by Anjana’s family. Anjana’s mother asks, “Why would Anjana, who was fearlessly fighting for justice for her murdered brother all the way to the Supreme Court, give up her own life?”

Sagar (MP): Baraudiya Naunagir village of Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh is part of Bundelkhand – a region of Madhya Pradesh with a long history of feudal oppression, one which continues to be in the news for atrocities against Dalits in recent years as well. Sagar, is an important centre of political power in the state; and is home to three prominent ruling Bharatiya Janata Party leaders and former ministers, like Gopal Bhargava, Bhupendra Singh, and Govind Singh Rajput.

The post In MP, Three Dalit Youths of a Single Family Are Dead. How Has the Police Responded? appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Sanjeev Sonpimpare, an artist based in Mumbai, reflects on the bias in reportage about the Dalit community and observes what big media tactically refuses to cover. “Atrocities against Dalits are happening every day, everyone is aware about this. Every person from the community experiences it. What is worse is the mainstream media’s response, which is completely biased.  For instance, it will not cover Bahujan’s events and celebrations, such as the Mahaparinirwan Diwas (on December 6), or Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14. My work as an artist is based on Ambedkarite thought and ideology. Through my work, I deal with social issues surrounding caste and capitalism, basic rights, and social justice.”

Similarly, it seems that India’s esteemed institutes are also not immune or completely sensitised from preventing violence against Dalits. Jyoti, name changed, is a young student from a government university reflects on these questions, and says “Caste system pretty much exists in all spaces, even the so called political and progressive spaces. For instance, I know of a student at my university, a doctoral student, who was discriminated against for drinking water in the hostel. She was not allowed to use the water cooler. Even a simple, fundamental part of life, such as drinking water becomes laden with caste. Even Babasaheb was prevented from drinking water…” When asked about everyday violence, “yes, this is an issue. Our social media are saturated with everyday violence, especially against Dalit women; it is an endless barrage of statistics, that is all that one sees in the media, endless violence against Dalit bodies. It is exasperating and can be overwhelming. Furthermore, what is interesting is that the media often prefers to focus on these violent incidents as well and reduces Dalits to that, as if Dalit persons are defined by nothing but violence. This is a propaganda, I feel, which is casteist in nature.”

Thus, from Jyoti’s narratives we can see that caste continues to function in the everyday with taboos, based on notions of purity and pollution, as it is seamlessly woven in everyday practices from universities to media houses. Structural barriers provided by caste not only impede access to justice but also exacerbate existing social and economic disparities, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage for Dalit communities.

A survey conducted by the SC/ST Students’ Cell at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay was reported by the Indian Express, highlights caste as a “central reason” behind the mental health challenges faced by students from reserved categories on campus. The survey was conducted in June of 2022 and revealed that nearly one-fourth of the SC/ST students involved experienced mental health issues. Additionally, 7.5% of them grappled with “acute mental health problems and exhibited a tendency for self-harm.”

How do intersectional identities such as gender and caste interact? CJP spoke to an Uttar Pradesh based activist named Mamta who has been working as an activist for many years. Prior to this she worked as a teacher for several years, too. She proudly states that now she is known as a Dalit mahila activist. Talking about her work, she narrates, “I take up issues of people who are often from the most vulnerable of social groups.” Discussing the particular vulnerability women from marginalised communities face, she says, “If your economic condition is not great you will face even more issues and problems.” Many of these affected people are women, who face issues at home with domestic violence and other issues. Many of these women,” she says, “are forced to work jobs day in and out and in that process, their children end up alone and neglected at home.” On asked how she herself managed having a family while at the same time working as an activist,  “It is very difficult. I am often told that I am on my own. Especially if there are emergency cases where I may have to venture out at night after receiving a call, I am told that I have chosen this so I have to do this on my own.”  Life is not easy for Mamta who, in her own words, argues that she faces the double burden of gender and caste as she navigates her life.

Structural violence against Dalit people and other marginalised groups puts them at vulnerable spots where they are prone to violence. CJP Mr Sumedh Jadhav, a Maharashtra based anti-caste activist and trade unionist who has worked with the Dalit Panthers for over 50 years, delved into the vision and ideals that have centred, talked about Maharashtra has been plagued with Casteism, from riots and violence in every village to large scale anti-Dalit violence in 1974.

The Dalit Panthers was a revolutionary social and political movement which emerged in Maharashtra. In 1974, Mumbai saw the Worli Riots where those who attended bore the brunt of police repression in assaulting Dalits. On January 10, 1974, during a protest rally, a stone was flung from a building by Shiv Sainiks in the vicinity of Parel Railway workshop. This incident took the life of Mr Jadhav’s brother, Shaheed Bhagwat Jadhav, and he became a martyr. Mr Jadhav talks about how he lost his brother, Shaheed Bhagwat Jadhav. Mr Jadhav details how the organisation focussed on providing legal assistance to victims of anti-Dalit violence in the state, “After an act of violence, the family is left emotionally derailed, and morally lost, to take up legal hurdles. This is where our work became pivotal, as we would step in and assist those families who faced violence and provide them legal help in courts and beyond. The work of the casteist and communal forces over the years has been to divide the nation and its social fabric, this is something we fight against.”

Asked about whether in 2023, how he looks back to the changes that have come about, Mr Jadhav states that not much has changed. However, he stands resolute in his stance that he will continue to struggle and fight against casteist forces. With a vision towards the future, Mr Jadhav talks about how on January 10, 2024 would be his brother Shaheed Bhagwat Jadhav’s 50 years death anniversary, “We will be organising a grand programme with politicians from across the spectrum. We operate with the vision of Babasaheb’s constitution and its values and firmly believe in the fight against the forces that seek to weaken the constitution.”

Instances of reported violence against ST/SC persons have reportedly increased over the years. While viewers hear of it mostly from their screens or through newspaper, Advocate Dular who spoke to CJP provides a closer view at the harrowing reality about how existing mechanisms for justice are not functional for Dalit people as those that implement these provisions often belong to the same caste and ideology as those individuals who attacks Dalits. Identifying as Dalit human rights defender Advocate Ram Dular has been working for human rights in Uttar Pradesh for the past 20-25 years. He is currently based in Varanasi. “The situation for Dalits is extremely grave. There are mass attacks on Dalits. You can see about the latest incident in Kanpur.” Adv. Dular is referring to the incident where a group of upper castes came and attacked people celebrating Buddha Katha in Kanpur. “Why can’t one celebrate Buddha Katha, or the religion they want? It is a fundamental right.”

Drawing light to the media, he highlights that the media does not “follow up” on these cases, and covers a limited number of incidents related to Dalits. “It only covers issues tagged as “Hindu-Muslim” violence, including Dalits under those they consider as Hindu – although ST/SCs have never been Hindu in reality. Casteist fundamentalism is really fuelled by the soch and vichaarhara (ideology) where upper castes think they can do anything to Dalit people. Now, these actions are being done openly. They have become nidar (fearless) in their actions. The government is not doing anything to curb it. Just recently, I heard of a case where a minor Dalit boy was beaten so badly and received internal injuries. He was brought home but he didn’t speak or do anything. Later when he was taken to the hospital, he died of the injuries he sustained by the attack. The boy’s family filed an FIR but the FIR was not registered for murder, it was only registered under section 506 of the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 which is only a complaint against having received threat to murder. So in these cases we see that the survivors even face various hurdles in filing FIRs and getting justice. So you can see the police also participate in this, and they do so because they share the same soch, background and ideology as the attackers. This is an issue of the system which is biased. ”

Citing an incident, Adv. Dular narrates how he tried to diligently make the process of accessing a lawyer easier for survivors of anti-Dalit violence by trying to make sure that provisions by the Prevention of Atrocities Act were implemented at the local level, “I sent over 25-30 applications to the Zila Parishad, SDM, Tehsil officers for the implementation of the provision that states that any private lawyer hired by the family of the victim can be turned into a public prosecutor by the District Magistrate.” This implementation, he says, would ensure that the family does not have to make ends meet to pay lawyers’ fees and the lawyer they hire would be adequately compensated, however, he says, “No action was taken. He even sent letters to officials higher up urging them to ensure the district level administration takes action, but they instead replied saying that he should approach the district level,” and putting the request at a seemingly endless loop. This serves to illustrate his words that there really is a systemic apathy and biased demeanour of the justice system (against Dalits).”

These words remind us of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s final address to the Constituent Assembly on November 25, 1949. He talked about the necessity for a social democracy rather than confining efforts solely to political dimensions, “Political Democracy cannot last unless their lies at the base Social Democracy.” Ambedkar’s commitment to social democracy remains a guiding and relevant sight, especially in light of the fact that despite India functioning as a democracy, Dalits, even those in the higher echelons of power, face discrimination and injustice. For instance, in September this year, Kerala’s Minister for SC/ST Welfare, K Radhakrishnan, shared his personal experience of encountering caste discrimination during a temple function in the Kannur district of Kerala. Aghast and shocked, he spoke to the media and emphasised the urgent need for a profound shift in the mind-set that perpetuates such discriminatory practices. This incident reveals that even Dalits in positions of power are not immune to the pervasive impact of structural violence.

According to a report by Deccan Herald, a survey by OXFAM-Newslaundry reported the dismal representation of Dalit and marginalised castes in India and detailed that 90% of the leadership positions in “mainstream” media are occupied by General caste individuals.

Thus, narratives of power, discrimination and strength seem to persevere. CJP spoke to Meena Kotwal, one of India’s foremost journalists who is the founding editor of The Mooknayak, who talked to us about her role as a journalist in bringing change and instituting a new media platform, Mooknayak, to bring change into people’s lives, and being “too vocal” a Dalit for existing media houses. Referring to her time and subsequent departure from BBC India, Kotwal had spoken in public and highlighted the casteism she had faced on account of being a Dalit woman. She talks to CJP, narrating about having worked as a freelance journalist in various media outlets after leaving the BBC, saying that the position of Dalit journalists in media publications as freelancers especially is extremely precarious. “They have very difficult future prospects, they are not included in decision-making processes, and if anyone is a vocal Dalit, like me, they will not be given a job at all.  Following my time as a freelancer, I even started working without remuneration,”

However, that did not bode well for the journalist, she narrates how she faced vulnerabilities on account of gender and caste both. However, she argues that her heart did not want to settle, “Mann nahi lag raha tha. Existing media did not want to accept the kind of stories I would want to do. This made me very angry. It was January of 2020, and in my anger and fury, I formed The Mooknayak, on 31st January 2021. Dr Ambedkar too, seeing how ignorant Indian media was at the time to concerns and issues of the Dalit people, had formed The Mooknayak on the very same day. So, it got me thinking, why should I not revive it again? I decided to form The Mooknayak which would focus on caste and gender in particular. Initially I started it alone. But gradually, we were 5 people, then more, and more joined.”

Talking about the toil put in the work of journalism, she says, “I was working very hard. I thought then, why not work hard for stories I believe are necessary. In India, despite it being the place where caste has originated, there is not enough work done on caste. Research and journalism on caste is happening in countries such as the US and UK, but not India.”

On being asked what is rewarding about her pioneering efforts in media, she says, “I don’t find this being rewarding in the sense that we should have had these initiatives long back. People are celebrating the Amrit Mahotsav of Azadi, it’s been 75 years, but we still lag so far behind. There has not been an Indian Dalit woman editor in India ever,” until of course, Kotwal took up the helm herself, marking a shift in what it means to be Dalit in media, “This should be a source of sharmindagi that we have had to wait for so long. There is nothing rewarding about this. It is something we lack.” Further discussing how international media has covered and been in contact with The Mooknayak more than domestic media, a fact that can be attributed to casteism, Kotwal talks about how domestic media fails to pay attention.

Talking about the momentous impact of The Mooknayak, she narrates that, “Our stories bring change. Due to coverage and reportage, if a person is getting access to electricity or water, improves food quality – or even is able to file an FIR, because it is become extremely dangerous and difficult for survivors to file an FIR in cases of SC/ST atrocities, I would say that is monumental impact by The Mooknayak. I am not here to change the government. Governments come and governments go, the situation of Dalits continues to remain the same even as time passes across decades. I believe small issues constitute a big change. If Mooknayak is able to bring these changes, it is something, I believe, that has a lasting, long term impact.”

Citing NCRB statistics, Kotwal states that crimes against Dalits have risen, “These are only the instances that are reported.” Thus, she observes how the condition of caste persists despite government promises over the years, thereby reiterating her belief in bringing changes in everyday experiences to be a source of lasting change. Meena Kotwal herself was subjected to casteist violence and even faced initial difficulty in filing an FIR against these instances after she released a photo on Twitter, now X, of burning the Manusmriti on December 25. Babasaheb Ambedkar had also burned the Manusmriti on December 25, Kotwal reminded us during the conversation, during the Mahad Satyagraha which was a struggle for Dalits to achieve access to public drinking water. He strongly believed that the Manusmriti was an anti-social text and thus the day he burned it is regarded as the Manusrmiti Dahan Diwas, he has explained the burning of the text saying that he was convinced that the Manusmriti did not even remotely support the idea of social equality.

While the nation continues to stand in the shadow of the horrifyingly brutal rape and murder of a young Dalit girl in Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras, the reality is that these incidents are the norm. The notion of “contamination” and the stigmatisation of Dalits in the name of scriptures have perpetuated deeply ingrained prejudices. Golwalkar’s speech in Ahmedabad in December 1960, as reported in Organiser in January 1961, reflects the far-right Hindutva’s use of ideological justifications for violently enforcing hierarchical norms.

The RSS seeks to unite India to a pan-Hindu nation-state, but scholars, writers, and activists have questioned the attempts by RSS to include it in its ambit of Hindu. Bhanwar Meghanshi, spoke to CJP in his eloquent but clear manner of speaking, putting to words his journey as an author offering a Dalit perspective from within India’s largest organisation, the parent organisation of India’s ruling party in power, the BJP. Hailing from Bhilwara, Rajasthan, Meghwanshi has published the now famous memoir of the times he worked in the RSS as a Swayamsevak, titled ‘I could not be a Hindu: the story of a Dalit in RSS.’ “I was compelled to write on my experience after the 2002 Godhra massacre. I initially started writing on Facebook, where I wrote about 54 episodes about my experience, much of which today have become a part of the book. This was how the book initially started. The responses to the posts were very welcoming. However, the book took time. It was in 2017, that it actually came about, in Hindi.”

Speaking about how his words unsettled people, he narrates, “However, the publishers were…apprehensive. They seemed to want to make some changes, reduce the teekhapan, and change the language which constituted a direct attack. However, another publication came, Navarun Prakashan, which published my book in 2019, and later on Navayana also took it forward with an English translation a year later. Now, it has been translated to several languages including Marathi, Malayalam, and a Punjabi version is also forthcoming. The response to the book was also great. However, there was absolutely no response from those I criticised, the RSS. Even though they respond and make an uproar about a single Tweet, for which people are often sent to jail, they did not respond to my book.” Meghwanshi terms it as a strategic silence, “They did not wish to give my book, and my perspective, any attention so that it might attract more readers. I have heard that some members of the organisation have certainly read my book but they have not responded, in fact, and have acted like the book does not exist. There has been violence or intimidation.”

Meghwanshi details how he came to write the book, “In the early 2000s, I used to work in the Mazdoor Kisan Sangathan following which I worked in village camps in affected areas in Gujarat post the 2002 massacre. This really struck me, and was the point that moved me to write about my experiences. I could see that Dalit and Adivasi communities were also involved in the violence, in the looting. I wanted them to have ‘another face’. I wanted them to know they are being used for politics.” “Furthermore, when the BJP came to power in 2014, I noticed that people were increasingly becoming silent. I felt that I should break the silence, who knows whether I might too be silenced in the coming years.”

While, he states that he did not face violence to his book, he did face comments from people at home. “From people in Bhilwara, there were mixed responses. Because the people I interact and meet with on a daily basis in the city are the characters that are featured in the book. About 80% of the people, the incidents, the place are all from the area, people I see drinking chai at a shop, catching a bus, or train or going about their work. However, there was no violent response. They would certainly give some comments, “Arey Meghwanshi ji, kya likh diya.” But it was limited to that.”

CJP asked him about the impact of his writing, and what propelled him to write, “What was different with me was that I wrote. Many people have such experiences, but not many write. The written word always presents a pramanikta (authenticity). Written word can be put to test of truth by court, thereby written words have credibility, and they also ensure the writer is accountable and responsible to what he writes.” On the RSS response, Meghwansi shares his understanding, “It seems that the RSS officials have decided that there would be no reaction to my book. When the book started selling copies in Bhilwara, I had heard from someone that a Dalit parshad was going to burn my book in public. However, the burning never took place. The plan was swiftly, it seems, done away with. I asked one acquaintance why this was happening. One of them told me it is because I am not a communist or Muslim or Christian, they do not wish to bring attention to the question of Dalits within the RSS that an attack on me would bring.”

After the book was published, Bhanwar Meghwanshi states that he was contacted by a working professional who was with the RSS for many years who contacted Meghwanshi saying that he had some questions and doubts about the book. The individual, who belongs to a marginalised background, told Meghwanshi that after he heard of the book, he bought it from Amazon, but it ended up lying in his home, unread, for quite some time. Meghwanshi asked the person why, who told him he was not sure he wanted to read it. However, once he did read it, he had even greater curiosity about the book and its contents, and thus he sought answers from RSS officials about Meghwanshi’s part in the RSS. He called up the official, and asked them about the book and its author, he was met with no refrain, the official mentioned that Meghwanshi was a good old Swayamsevak, and that these days he was naraaz with the organisation. Meghwanshi and this individual had a lengthy conversation about the book and their experience in the organisation.

Meghwanshi reflects on the impact of his book, “I think when you speak, well within your rights, your life and your life’s truth come out, and this may guide someone who’s lost their way, it may give someone hope … One incident struck me. Moolchand Rana has mentioned me in his book. He told me that he has worked in the RSS for 49 years, and left it after 49 years. However, he was inspired by my writing and encouraged to write by it. That’s what it is, writing breaks silence, I think, that is important. One mustn’t be silent, one must speak up no matter how much darkness there is.”

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What had happened?

According to the report, the victim was reportedly subjected to a horrifying gang rape after which she was beheaded at a flour mill reportedly owned by a higher caste, Shukla family who are noted to hold influence in the area. The victim and her husband were both employed by the family.

The body of the woman was discovered when her daughter arrived at the mill after hearing her screams from the closed door of the mill. However, she wasn’t let in initially, but after some time she was let in only to see the body of her mother lying in three pieces. A complaint was registered after this against the mill owners, Rajkumar, his brother Bauwa Shukla and Ramakrishna Shukla.

The accused individuals have in turn stated that the deceased died due to an accident at their flour mill. Furthermore, the police investigation appears to have thus far corroborated this explanation without conducting a thorough and impartial inquiry, according to the report. The report also states that an accident at the flour mill does not seem to be corroborated by the evidence from the photographs of the crime scene, which does not show a lot of blood spatter in the vicinity of the flour mill itself. 

Accused being shielded

Furthermore, the report detailed that immediately after the incident as the family struggled to garner support and file an FIR at the Police Station, the DSP Nitin Kumar, DSP arrived at the village and tried to persuade the villagers that the incident was an accident at the flour mill. He furthermore briefed the media similarly about the nature of the incident being an accident even before an examination of the witness took place, the report details. Going further, just a few days after the incident, on November 2, 2023, Superintendent of Police Ankur Agrawal took to X and stated that after a preliminary investigation, it is understood that the incident occurred accidentally due to the victim getting stuck in the flour mill.

#bandapolice
थाना गिरवां क्षेत्र अंतर्गत चक्की में फंसकर महिला की मृत्यु हो जाने के संबंध में विस्तृत वीडियो बाइट पुलिस अधीक्षक बांदा #अंकुर_अग्रवाल। pic.twitter.com/dR5T29XoeH

— Banda Police (@bandapolice) November 2, 2023

The fact-finding report points to major gaps in the investigation process and concerns about deliberate negligence by law enforcement agencies. The news that the accused Shukla family, known for their social and political influence, particularly ties to the ruling political party, further makes the situation look grim. There have been glaring mishaps of justice, according to the report. One of them being that the post mortem report too was only able to be done after the villager’s exerted pressure. It is reported that the authorities initially sought to dispose of the body without conducting a post-mortem. 

Suspected collusion between police and accused

Complicating matters further, two out of the three named accused individuals remain at large and appear to wield influence over the ongoing investigation. There are even reports that the crime scene, which is part of the property owned by the accused, was not sufficiently sealed. Similarly, the arrest of the third accused under lesser charges seems to be an attempt at quelling public anger, according to the report.

Moreover, the FIR does not charge the accused on serious offences and has charged three people under Sections 302 and 376 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 3 of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The fact-finding report details that despite the serious nature of the charges outlined in the FIR, the authorities did not take any measures to apprehend the accused individuals and instead, the alleged perpetrators were seen freely moving about and, furthermore, actively influencing and diverting the direction of the investigation. Rajkumar Shukla, who is one of the accused, was even seen present at the post-mortem facility giving a statement to a media reporter.

It was only after witnessing complete inaction, that the villagers collectively called for a protest on November 16, after which Rajkumar was arrested. However, he was arrested under charges such as death to negligence, under sections 304A, 287, 201 and Section 3(2)(v) of the SC/ST Act.

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The post Fact-finding report alleges UP police protecting men suspected of beheading Dalit woman appeared first on SabrangIndia.

The victims are all daily wage labourers and have been identified as Ganapathy Kumar, Ajith, Vijayakumar, Periyasamy, and his 5-year-old grandson, are residents of Sankaiah Koil Street in Perungudi and members of the Paraiyar community which is a Scheduled Caste group.

According to the report by The News Minute, the victims were having a conversation at a playground before heading to work on that fateful Monday evening. The men were reportedly approached by men named R Mari and K Sasikumar under the premise of asking about an individual named Kannan Pillai. The soon to be victims replied that they don’t know anyone by that name, following which the exchange quickly escalated into an argument as the dominant castes allegedly resorted to casteist slurs. The two men made sure to mention their caste and proceeded to ask the Dalits why they were not making gestures of “respect” towards them. The two attackers are from the Kallar community which is a backward caste community that holds considerable political influence, according to The News Minute.

The situation began to escalate and proceeded to worsen further when the attackers brought out swords to attack them. Periyasamy tried to intervene and stop the fight, but he too was attacked in the process. The attackers did not even spare his 5-year-old grandson, leaving the young boy with cuts on his legs. Once the scene began to attract public attention from passers-by who started arriving at the playground, the attackers fled. Following this, the injured Dalits were quickly transported to the Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai where they are currently undergoing treatment.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that the police have initiated an investigation into the matter which has led to the arrest of two men. Going further, the police have also reportedly heightened security measures in Perungudi village to ensure the situation remains calm. The attack has sparked widespread condemnation from various Dalit rights activists and has even prompted the Tamil Nadu BJP president to express his shock at the issue and demand strict action.

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The post 5 Dalits attacked with swords, a 5-year-old child also amongst injured appeared first on SabrangIndia.

A Dalit family in Palakkad Kerala, was attacked by an alleged assault done by their neighbour for celebrating Diwali with firecrackers. The complainants, Manikandan and his mother were injured during the attack during the altercation that transpired on October 23, the eve of Diwali. This incident was reported to the Vadakancherry police.

According to the family, their neighbour Rahmatullah and his son had come and confronting them by asking why they were bursting firecrackers, following which an argument occurred when the neighbour reportedly pushed Manikandan to the ground and kicked his mother in the chest. The complaint further asserts that the attackers used derogatory caste names during the incident.

However, despite filing a complaint, the family claims that no action has been taken by the authorities. Moreover, they insist that the local police refuse to register a case, which compelled the victim, Manikandan, to submit a complaint to the state’s Chief Minister regarding the inaction of the police in this matter.

Tamil Nadu 

Tamil Nadu once again sees a brutal incident of caste violence. A 26-year-old singer was reportedly assaulted in Pudukottai by people belonging to the Kallar caste, a denotified community classified under the Most Backward Classes (MBC). The survivor whose name is Prakash is from the Paraiyar community, which is recognised as a Scheduled Caste group in Tamil Nadu. Prakash, is a well-known singer and artist who frequently participates in music-related events in and around Pudukkottai. He was also a contestant on Season 2 of the acclaimed reality television show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, broadcast on Zee Tamil television in 2019. Thus far, two people have been arrested in connection with this case by the Malaiypur police, according to The Hindu.

On November 12, Prakash and his cousin Kabilan were going to Varappur on a motorcycle to get some materials for festival celebrations. However, on their way back they noticed two men from the Kallar community following them. There onwards, the two men intercepted Prakash and Kabilan and subjected them to caste-based verbal abuse. Despite attempts to evade the confrontation, two more people from the Kallar community joined the first two assailants, and started physically assaulting Prakash which also involved throwing bottles and pelting stones at him. The attack left Prakash critically injured, requiring treatment at the Pudukkottai Government Medical College Hospital, where he has received up to 15 stitches on his head.

Recounting the harrowing experience from his hospital bed, a grievously injured Prakash has stated that the assault appeared to be a targeted and brutal act. Prakash has also stated that the assailants might have recognised him from his participation in local temple festivals in their villages over the past few years.

Andhra Pradesh

On Sunday, November 12, in the village of Kolimigundla in Nandyala district, Andhra Pradesh, a Dalit lawyer named Manda Vijaykumar and his mother were allegedly assaulted by people who are reportedly associated with the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP). The YSRP is a regional party in Andhra Pradesh. Vijaykumar claims that the attack was organised by Banaganapally MLA Katasani Ramireddy’s henchmen after he had exposed illegal land mutation; he also says that they have tried to attack him in the past as well. In the vicious attack, he was dragged out of his home and beaten viciously with slippers. Vijaykumar’s mother, who was asking them to spare her son, was also reportedly beaten during the incident.

What adds another layer of concern to this disturbing episode is the alleged complicity of the police who, instead of taking action against the accused, Vijaykumar himself was reportedly booked under fake charges, including sections 354A (harassing a woman), 323 (touching a woman), 506, and 509 (intimidation). His lawyer maintains that these false charges are a means to silence him as he has been actively advocating against land encroachments in the village.

Karnataka

In Kamalapur, a young Dalit man suffered fatal injuries during an attack on October 27. He was undergoing treatment at Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS), but despite the treatment, he passed away on Monday, according to the Deccan Herald.

The local police have registered a complaint against one Shankar Parmeshwar Naikodi, a person with reportedly a lengthy history of previous offences, and six others involved in the assault on the Dalit man. While three suspects have been arrested so far, the rest are currently absconding. Two constables have also been suspended for negligence in handling the case.

The incident unfolded at an annual fair held in the village on October 26. Shankar and a few others reportedly engaged in a verbal spat, escalating to abusive language before ruthlessly attacking Jagadevappa with a rod. The victim was rushed to the hospital after his head injury, only to succumb to them later.

Charges which include those of caste abuse and attempted murder, have been filed against suspects. Authorities have reportedly amped up security measures in the village after this attack.

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Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh

This chilling incident from UP reveals the prevalence of caste-based violence in India. An 18-year-old Dalit youth was killed in Sultanpur allegedly for a simple demand of Rs 1200 of unpaid wages for a full four days of labour at a farm in Baramadpur village. The victim’s elder brother spoke to The Quint, stating, “This is the price one pays for being a Dalit in this country. What was his fault? They killed him for just Rs 1200. That’s how cheap our lives are.”

On August 25, around 3 pm, the victim went on his cycle to collect the owed wages at the house of one Anuj Yadav. However, by 7 pm that same evening, Girijesh Yadav arrived at the victim’s home informing them that the young man had met with an “accident” and had been hospitalised in Ambedkarnagar’s civil hospital. Upon reaching the hospital at 8 pm, the family was informed their loved had already passed away.

The FIR, registered on August 26, raised suspicions as it became evident that the injuries on the victim’s body were not from an accident. The complaint pointed out that the youth had been attacked with a sharp object, according to the report by The Quint.

An FIR was lodged under section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. While one of the accused, Digvijaya Singh, surrendered and is in police custody, authorities have been actively searching for another person who is unidentified thus far.

In the wake of this horrifying incident, about 300 Dalits in the region have staged a protest, demanding stringent action against the accused. The victim’s brother has spoken about the need for stronger more stringent measures, stating, “The sections mentioned in the FIR are too weak, and these incidents have become commonplace. The administration needs to take strict action against the accused.”

Inspector Sanjay Kumar Verma, the Station Officer at Akhandnagar police station, conveyed to The Quint that, while Digvijaya remains in police custody, the search for the unidentified individual named in the FIR is still an ongoing priority. The police has stated, “The case is actively under investigation. Digvijaya Singh, one of the accused, surrendered to the authorities and is currently in police custody. Our efforts are focused on identifying the person who assisted in transporting the victim to the hospital.”

The victim’s brother has further voiced concerns, by asserting, “They think its okay to hit a Dalit. But even though casteism is rampant in our village, a case like this is still shocking because this has never happened before.”

Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh

In a separate harrowing incident from Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly district, a Dalit woman endured a traumatic ordeal at the hands of two Muslim men. The survivor was deceived into visiting a hotel by her Muslim friend, where she was subjected to rape, filmed, and forcibly fed beef by her assailants, according to India Today.

The accused individuals, identified as Shoaib, a B Pharma student, and Nazim, a barber by profession, also recorded the heinous act and proceeded to blackmail the survivor, demanding a staggering Rs 5 lakh. Subsequently, they dispatched the video to the survivor’s fiancé and attempted to flee to Kashmir, where Nazim operated a shop.

Fearing the repercussions of the blackmail, the survivor reported the incident to the police. The survivor had borrowed money from her Muslim friend, aiming to repay it. However, on September 2, she was lured to a cafe by the accused woman, where the two male culprits awaited. She was then tricked into going to a hotel where she was brutally gang-raped.

In response to the victim’s complaint, the police registered a case under relevant sections of the SC/ST Act. All three accused individuals have since been apprehended.

In the case of Dalit women, data from the National Crime Records Bureau reveals that a staggering 45 % rise in reported cases of rape involving Dalit women between 2015 and 2020 occurred. Shockingly, this data also highlights that on average 10 incidents of rape against Dalit women and girls were reported daily in India during this period.

Furthermore, findings from the National Family Health Survey conducted in 2015-2016 demonstrate disturbing trends in sexual violence rates. Scheduled Tribes (Adivasi or Indigenous Indians) experienced the highest rate at 7.8 %, followed by Scheduled Castes (Dalits) at 7.3 %.

What remains alarming is that in March 2023, the Indian government informed Parliament that a staggering number of over 1.9 lakh cases of crimes against Dalits were recorded during the four-year period from 2018. According to data from the National Crime Records Bureau, Uttar Pradesh has alone reported 49,613 cases of total atrocities and attacks on Dalits (11,924 in 2018, 11,829 in 2019, 12,714 in 2020, and 13,146 in 2021). Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Ajay Kumar Mishra, shared this information in response to a question posed by BSP MP Girish Chandra, who inquired about mechanisms for monitoring such incidents.

In total, India registered 1,89,945 cases of crimes against the Dalit community during the four-year span (42,793 in 2018, 45,961 in 2019, 50,291 in 2020, and 50,900 in 2021). Out of all these cases, chargesheets were filed in 1,50,454 of these cases which resulted in about only 27,754 convictions. These are records of only reported crimes having taken place, there is no way to account for cases that never reached law enforcement officers.

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