OPS seeks action against caste discrimination incident in Tenkasi

CHENNAI: Condemning the Tenkasi incident on caste-based discrimination where children from the backward community were denied snacks by the shopkeeper, ousted AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam on Monday urged the Chief Minister to take action against those who indulged in the offence.

"A video, which was circulated in social media, especially on Periyar's birthday, shows that a shopkeeper in Sankarankoil at Tenkasi district refused to sell candies for the children belonging to the backward community", he said adding that the incident cannot be accepted.

Stating that it was the duty of the government to plug out these types of caste-based disparity at the initial stage, Panneerselvam said: "In addition, the School Education Department must not only provide education to the children in the government schools, but also monitor their activities and should create awareness about unity in diversity among them".

The deputy opposition leader of the House claimed that though untouchability was abolished, there are few incidents were reported in Tamil Nadu. "Now it has increased in the State and it was due to lethargic approach by the DMK government," he alleged.

Stating that though the action was taken against caste discrimination as per the law, it was also the duty of the government by inviting all the people from various quarters and discuss with them to create further changes in their mindset.

"Therefore, the Chief Minister should need special attention not only to take action against offenders but also advise to curb caste-clash besides ensuring that incidents of caste-discrimination should not occur in future," he added.