Kolar: Clash over Dussehra procession route; 20 cases lodged

Twenty criminal cases have been filed in connection with the clashes that erupted between Dalits and upper caste members following an argument over the procession route on Dussehra, police said on Friday.

The clashes reportedly took place on Wednesday when the villagers had assembled to discuss finalizing the procession route map for the deity. The Dalit youths raised objections that the procession arrives last in their locality and is made to pass hurriedly without giving any time to them to offer prayers.

The upper caste group however remained adamant that the procession will be carried in the same manner as it had been over the years. This led to an altercation that escalated into clashes.

The situation was brought under control by the police personnel and they even intervened to make changes in the procession.

A peace meeting was held between the upper caste people and Dalits and the villagers were warned of the consequences of discrimination whereafter they agreed to carry out the procession in all streets.

According to police, nine atrocity cases have been lodged by Dalits, and 11 attempt to murder cases have been filed against the Dalits by upper caste persons.

Further investigation is on.

 

 

(With IANS inputs)