Dalits register grievances about SC/ST Act implementation at public hearing

Nearly, 18 Dalit victims from across the state spoke on the abuse and crime committed by the Caste Hindu men on them before the panel which included renowned social activists such as Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam leader Kolathur

Mani, Senior CPI leader Nallakannu, Aloor Shanavas from VCK and other noted activists and journalists.

In the public meeting victims spoke on the violence they were subjected to. Subbuthai, from T Kallupatti near Periyakulam, in Theni district, said that her son Nagamuthu, a local temple priest, committed suicide based on the instigation by the Temple committee members, who were Caste Hindus. Even Nagamuthu filed a complaint against them. Nagamuthu was threatened and after three years of his death, based on High Court direction a case under SC/ST Act was filed against the Caste Hindu men, said Subbuthai.

Jaishankar, from Cuddalore, said that his son Jaiprakash was murdered by Caste Hindu men when Jaiprakash’s legs had accidentally touched a Caste Hindu youth while they were playing Kabaddi. Though four men had killed his son, police booked case against only one while three others were left free, said Jaishankar.

Kathir, Evidence executive director, said that in TN the percentage of prosecution in SC/ST Act is just five to seven per cent and in national level it is just 15 per cent. Under such circumstances the Supreme Court, in March, said that if cases need to be booked under SC/ ST Act they should be investigated first, which is against the Act itself, said Kathir. Kathir also said that the statements of the victims were registered and it would add strength to the argument in the Supreme Court.