Dalits in Gujarat allegedly told to bring own plates, water to temple feast
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Junagadh: Organisers of a Lord Ram temple consecration in Bhutdi village, Junagadh district, have been accused of caste discrimination after directing Dalit invitees to bring their own plates, bowls, and drinking water.
The group of about 10 Scheduled Caste individuals was also told to arrive after other participants had eaten, dine in a separate area, and avoid entering the temple premises, according to a complaint filed by Ajay Chatur Boricha, 25.
Boricha told Visavadar police station that on April 27, five committee members visited his neighbourhood, invited the group to the Pran Pratishtha Mahotsav, but imposed the humiliating conditions—accompanied by casteist slurs—prompting them to boycott the event.
The community feast was cancelled as a result, though the temple ceremony went ahead on April 29.
Police registered a case against Babu Uka Hapani, Narendra Bhanji Siroya, Ramnik Samji Sorathia, Atul Bhikha Siroya, and Phoola Popat Siroya under sections 3(1)(r), 3(1)(za)A, and 3(1)(za)C of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, plus BNS sections 196(2) for promoting enmity and 54 for abetment.
The investigation is ongoing.