TIRUPPUR: The Dalits living in Rajavur and Maivadi hamlets in Madathukulam town were banned from wearing footwear by the dominant caste people. Further, the age-old discriminatory practice of double-tumbler system–serving tea in separate glasses for Dalits– is also in vogue in several tea shops. It is understood that the tea shops serve tea in disposable paper cups to the Dalits while tea is served in glasses for others.
The caste discrimination was brought to light by a delegation of functionaries from Dravidar Viduthalai Khazhagam and Tamil Puligal Katchi who visited the area early this month.
The functionaries later complained to the Tiruppur district police. The police have formed a team to assess the situation.
Meanwhile, the Revenue Development Officer of Udumalaipet Jaswant Kanna is likely to hold a “peace meeting,” to address the issue.
Speaking to The New Indian Express, M Nagarajan a villager said,” Arunthathiyars (Dalits) form the majority of the people living in Madathukulam, and they work as agricultural labourers in Rajavur and Maivadi. But we cannot enter the villages wearing footwear and it is an unwritten rule. For example in Kambala Naicker Street in Myvadi village, we cannot enter wearing slippers. Dalit youths who question the dominant caste people over discrimination are intimidated.
This story was originally published in newindianexpress.com. Read the full story here .