SC/ST Commission Chief Warns Against Discrimination
Dalits allowed to enter temple, community dining programmes held
NIZAMABAD: SC/ST Commission chairman Bakki Venkataiah,, warned that strict action would be taken under the SC/ST Atrocities Act against any injustice or discrimination towards Dalits, and urged victims to come forward and file complaints without fear.
He said the Indian Constitution guarantees equality and stressed the need to eliminate caste-based discrimination and divisions in society, adding that it is a collective responsibility to ensure equal rights for all. A social equality programme was conducted in Narsampalli village of Kamareddy district on Wednesday, aimed at addressing caste discrimination in rural areas.
As part of the initiative, Dalits were allowed entry into temples in the village, and community dining programmes were organised. Officials and villagers also visited the Anjaneya Swamy and Shiva temples and performed prayers, with participation from all sections.
Venkataiah said coordinated efforts by the government, officials and the public were necessary to address discrimination, and emphasised equal access to temples, social events and festivals.
Additional collector (revenue) Victor, SC Corporation official Venkateshwarlu, sarpanch Ravi, DTDVO Soujanya and tahsildar Himabindu were present.
At the start of the programme, Venkataiah paid tributes to B.R. Ambedkar by garlanding his portrait. Community meals were later organised, with participation from villagers across sections.
