Marakumbi Villagers Struggle to Pay Bail in Dalit Atrocity Case
The 98 residents of Marakumbi village, arrested in a Dalit atrocity case, have been granted bail, but many are still behind bars. The main hurdle is the Rs 50,000 bond required by the Dharwad High Court for their release. For several families, this amount is beyond their reach.
Most villagers work as daily wage earners, with no job security. Missing even a single day of work means losing a day’s pay, which they can’t afford. As a result, many families are struggling to gather the funds needed for the bond. Some are selling their gold jewelry, while others are seeking loans from friends and relatives.
Nagamma, a senior resident of Marakumbi, is one such individual facing despair. Her son, a daily wage laborer, has been jailed, and she’s running out of options. She has sought help from numerous people, but many elderly villagers are still fighting to raise enough money for their loved ones’ release.
The arrests occurred on October 23, with the accused sentenced to life imprisonment. However, after the bail order on November 13, 98 individuals were allowed bail, except the first accused. Though some have managed to pay for bail and meet with lawyers, many are still trying to arrange the required funds.
The village is now facing a tense atmosphere, with people struggling both emotionally and financially.
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