Dalit Groups Condemn Amit Shah’s Remarks, Raise Key Welfare Concerns

Mangaluru: Widespread protests erupted across the country following Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s controversial remarks in Parliament, perceived as disrespectful toward Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Constitution. Dalit organizations in Dakshina Kannada have strongly condemned the statement and plan to send a formal protest to the state and central governments, demanding legal action.

Defense of Ambedkar’s Legacy
S.P. Anand, convenor of the Dalit Sangharsha Samiti (Ambedkar faction), voiced these concerns during the monthly SC/ST meeting chaired by DCP Siddharth Goyal. He stated, “The dignity and rights Dalits enjoy today are thanks to Ambedkar’s Constitution. Disrespecting him warrants strict action.”

Ambedkar Bhavan and Student Hostels
Premanath highlighted the need to safeguard Ambedkar Bhavan in Urwa Store by constructing a compound wall to prevent encroachment. He also stressed the plight of Dalit students struggling to find affordable hostels, pushing them toward costly private accommodations. The DCP assured that the concerns would be forwarded to higher authorities.

Call for More Women Officers
Anand urged the appointment of women at senior levels in women’s police stations to ensure complainants feel at ease. The DCP noted that 35 of the 45 personnel in the women’s police station are women, but the demand for senior female officers would be escalated.

Dalit Welfare and Employment Issues
Concerns were raised about the misuse of Dalit reservations in commercial properties and the hurdles double graduates face in securing government jobs. Anand criticized the politicization of Ambedkar Corporation schemes, demanding a return to DC oversight.

Drug Abuse and Land Encroachment
Anil Kankanady urged intensified anti-drug awareness in schools and colleges amid a spike in cases, while Chandrakumar alleged encroachment on Dalit-owned DC-manna lands in rural areas.

The meeting also addressed various grievances, underscoring the urgent need for systemic reforms to address Dalit welfare.

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