Yadgir: Headmistress Receives Death Threats Over Dalit Guest at Republic Day Event

A government school headmistress in Yadgir district, Karnataka, allegedly faced death threats for inviting a Dalit community member as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations, officials confirmed on Friday. The accused, Basanagouda Kencha Reddy (33), was arrested on Thursday in connection with the incident.

According to police, Reddy called headmistress Nirmala Dange and verbally abused her using obscene and casteist language before issuing threats to her life. The incident occurred at Bacheematti Government Higher Primary School, where guests, including Dalit community members, were seated on stage during the January 26 event.

Outraged upon seeing Dalit guests on the dais, Reddy allegedly confronted Dange, using derogatory remarks and threatening her. The issue sparked widespread condemnation on social media, leading to a complaint under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act at Surapura police station.

Surapura Town Police Inspector Anand Vagmodi confirmed that the complaint was filed on January 28, and the accused was presented before the Yadgir District Atrocities Special Court on Friday. He has been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days.

The incident has drawn strong reactions, with many calling for strict action against caste-based discrimination and intimidation.

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