Huts of 5 Dalits set on fire in Virudhunagar

Police said that previously when there was a water crisis in Vanniyampatti village, the elders had convened a meeting and formulated an arrangement. 

According to it, the Dalits were allowed to use the water from the tap only between 4 pm and 6 pm. It would be used by the caste Hindus after 6 pm. The arrangement continued despite objection from  the Dalits. 

On Thursday evening, when a member of the Dalit community went to draw water from the tap after 6 pm, an altercation broke out and the caste Hindus allegedly hurled stones on Dalits and attacked them with logs. Another group damaged bikes and torched Dalit houses. 

Over 10 persons, who were injured in the attack, were rushed to  the GH. On information, Virudhunagar SP Rajarajan rushed to the spot and held inquiries. Though security has been strengthened in the village, the situation has not returned  to normal. Vanniyampatti police have booked a case against 40 persons and are investigating the incident.