Koppal: In a renewed episode of caste-based discrimination, all barber shops in Muddaballi village, located just 7 km from Koppal town, have reportedly shut their doors after Dalit residents sought services like haircuts and shaves.
Two months ago, similar complaints emerged when local barbers allegedly refused to serve Dalit men. Authorities intervened at the time, warning barbers of legal consequences under anti-untouchability laws. Following the pressure, barbers agreed to comply.
However, reports now suggest that barbers are continuing discriminatory practices in subtler ways—refusing Dalit customers while providing home services to other caste groups. As a result, Dalit men are compelled to travel to Koppal city for basic grooming needs.
The issue has sparked political backlash. BJP Koppal district president Basavaraj Dadesaguru condemned the ongoing discrimination and criticized the state government’s failure to protect the rights and dignity of Dalits in rural areas.
The matter highlights the persistence of caste-based exclusion in everyday services, even decades after legal abolition of untouchability.
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