Two individuals have been apprehended under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, for allegedly engaging in “untouchability practices” within business establishments in Karnataka’s Koppal district, as per police reports on Thursday. Additionally, a third individual is currently evading authorities.
Confirming the arrests, Koppal rural police inspector N Bakesh stated, “A case has been filed against Venkoba (45) and Sanjeevappa (54) (both known by their first names) under the Prevention of Atrocities Act. Both have been detained.” The identity of the absconding suspect has not been disclosed, with the inspector mentioning ongoing efforts to locate and apprehend them.
The complaint stemmed from an incident at Venkoba’s establishment where a Dalit individual was allegedly denied a haircut. “The accused made derogatory remarks about the individual’s caste and refused to render services,” explained an official familiar with the investigation.
Reportedly, this incident occurred in Halavarthy village of the district, marking a recurring pattern of discrimination against Dalits in the region. Instances of Dalits facing segregation, denial of access to public spaces including eateries and barbershops, and being refused basic amenities such as haircuts have been documented, according to police sources.
During the investigation, testimonies revealed instances of Dalits being segregated and treated as “untouchables,” with establishments citing “service unavailability” as justification, noted another official quoting members of the Dalit community.
Accusations have been directed towards certain individuals for perpetuating and condoning discriminatory practices, prompting outrage among Dalits who demand the closure of biased establishments.
Responding to the matter, district authorities initiated legal action against three individuals, including hotel proprietor Sanjeevappa and barber shop owner Venkoba. The Halavarthi village, home to over 80 Dalit families, was visited by government officials, including sub-divisional magistrate Mahesh Malagatti and deputy superintendent of police Channappa Saravagol, who convened a peace meeting.
“We conducted a meeting and shared breakfast with members from both communities,” stated SDM Mahesh Malagatti, emphasizing their commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence and eliminating discrimination against the Madiga community. Stern warnings were issued against perpetuating untouchability practices, with officials affirming their vigilance and readiness to take stringent measures against any recurrence of such incidents.
Inspector N Bakesh assured that the situation in the village remains peaceful, crediting the timely intervention of district authorities.
Read More :
