By Abdul Mahir
Jaipur: Riding a horse for wedding celebrations is a tradition in India, but the same is still unacceptable for Dalits, who are often assaulted if they dare to do so. The latest case has come to light from Jhalawar district of Rajasthan.
In a shocking case, which took place at Jhalawar, the police had to deploy their armed men to ensure that a Dalit groom can hoist himself on a horse for his wedding rituals, with people cheering.
The marriage ceremony took place under police surveillance last Friday night in Gurdiya Bharta village under Bhawani Mandi police station area.
Since the cops stationed at the police station were not numerically strong to prevent a possible untoward situation, additional force was called in from nearby Mishroli police stations so that Giriraj could ride a horse for his pre-wedding rituals and wedding procession.
Why did the groom’s family have to call the police?
The groom’s father, Mangilal Meghwal, said stones were pelted at the wedding procession of his nephew, Kamlesh Meghwal, who got married two years ago (February 9, 2022).
“Several of my relatives and guests had suffered injuries in the attack,” he told The Mooknayak.
Kamlesh, who serves the Indian Army, was threatened that he would have to face consequences if he rode a horse for his wedding rituals. His marriage too was solemnised under police watch.
Later, a case was registered on the groom’s father’s complaints. Some arrests were made, and the matter is under trial in a court.
This story was originally published in en.themooknayak.com. Read the full story here.