Kundapur: In a troubling incident in Mavinakatte, Kundapur taluk, a Dalit woman named Lakshmi was allegedly assaulted and subjected to casteist abuse by a woman customer, identified as Yasmin, following a disagreement over payment change at a medical shop.
Altercation over ₹500 note turns violent
According to preliminary reports, Yasmin visited the medical shop where Lakshmi works and attempted to pay for medicines with a ₹500 note. When Lakshmi informed her that she did not have sufficient change and suggested using PhonePe or digital payment, Yasmin reportedly became irate. The argument escalated, and Yasmin is alleged to have assaulted Lakshmi and hurled caste-based slurs at her.
Incident caught on CCTV, sparks outrage
The entire incident was captured on CCTV footage, which has since gone viral, drawing sharp criticism from community members and local leaders. The video evidence has become central to the investigation and has fuelled outrage over the verbal and physical abuse faced by Lakshmi.
Victim hospitalised, SP visits site
Lakshmi, who sustained injuries during the altercation, was immediately admitted to Kundapur Taluk Hospital for treatment. Upon learning of the incident, Udupi District Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar visited the hospital to check on her condition. He also made a visit to the medical shop to assess the situation and gather information.
Speaking to the media, the SP assured that the matter is being treated seriously and that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the evidence. A case has been registered at Kundapur Rural Police Station, and an investigation is currently underway.
Community response and legal implications
The case has stirred tensions in the area, with Dalit rights groups demanding strict action against the accused. The use of casteist language and physical assault could attract charges under Section 3 of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, apart from sections of the Indian Penal Code relating to assault and criminal intimidation.
The police are expected to examine the CCTV footage, record witness statements, and proceed with action following procedural norms.
A wider call for respect and accountability
The incident has reignited discussions on the treatment of frontline workers and the urgent need for awareness and accountability in everyday interactions. Civil society activists have pointed out that such occurrences reflect deeper societal prejudices that must be addressed through legal enforcement and social reform.
As the investigation progresses, authorities have assured that justice will be delivered in accordance with the law.