Caste Discrimination in Rajasthan: Dalit Youth Denied Tilak at Ramdevra Temple, Sparks Outrage

The viral video clearly shows that when a youth from the Bhil and Scheduled Caste community demanded to apply a tilak at the Ramdevra shrine, the priest refused.

Jaipur- Incidents of caste-based discrimination and oppression continue to surface in Rajasthan. Recently, a case emerged from Ramdevra Temple in Jaisalmer district, where a Dalit youth was prevented from applying a tilak (religious mark). A video of the incident has gone viral on social media, sparking widespread anger among Dalit, tribal, and backward class organizations.

Gheegraj Jodhli, founder of the Samvaidhanik Vichar Manch and a Dalit activist, has strongly condemned the incident. Speaking to The Mooknayak, he said, “Rajasthan has long been a stronghold of feudal mentality. Discrimination and untouchability against Dalits, tribals, and backward classes occur daily here. The incident at Ramdevra Temple is a result of this very mindset.”

The viral video clearly shows that when a youth from the Bhil and Scheduled Caste community demanded to apply a tilak at the Ramdevra shrine, the priest refused. The youth repeatedly questioned, “Are we not Hindus? Do we not have rights? Under which law are we being denied the right to apply a tilak?”

The priest had no answer and walked away. The aggrieved youth recorded the incident and shared it on social media, triggering sharp reactions across Rajasthan.

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Jodhli highlighted several instances of caste-based discrimination in Rajasthan, including: Preventing Dalit grooms from riding horses during weddings, Barbers refusing to cut the hair of Dalits in villages, Forcing the Kalbelia community to perform last rites of their family members inside their homes, Dalits being compelled to carry their footwear in their hands while passing through upper-caste neighborhoods, Illegal encroachments on Dalit-owned lands.

He emphasized that after the implementation of the Constitution in India, Dalits, tribals, and backward classes have become educated and are demanding their rights. However, those with a feudal mindset are unable to accept this change, leading to such recurring incidents.

Jodhli termed the incident an attack on the core principles of the Constitution. He stated, “Our fight is not about entering temples but about establishing constitutional values of equality. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar also led a satyagraha on March 2, 1930, to enter the Kalaram Temple in Nashik. His goal was not just temple entry but to establish equality within Hinduism.”

He further added, “Ramdevra Temple is controlled by a single family entrenched in feudal mentality. This family lives a life of luxury from the donations and offerings made by devotees, while the oppressed and marginalized are denied equal rights within the temple.”

Jodhli demanded that the government take control of the Ramdevra shrine and utilize the donations for public welfare. He suggested that the funds should be used for hospitals, hostels, coaching institutes, organ transplants, girls’ education, and programs to eradicate discrimination.

Warning of Mass Protests

Regarding the incident at Ramdevra Temple, Jodhli urged the government to immediately arrest the temple priest. He warned, “Every year, around one crore devotees visit Ramdevra during the Bhadrapad festival, 85-90% of whom belong to Scheduled Castes and Tribes. If their sentiments are hurt, this wave of devotion could turn into a massive protest. In such a situation, it will become difficult for the government to maintain order.”

Jodhli recalled that he had previously raised his voice for Dalit rights at Ramdevra Temple, which led to his imprisonment. However, he clarified that going to jail did not weaken his resolve but made it stronger.

He said, “If the government does not address our demands in time, we will launch a massive, well-planned movement. I have never feared going to jail, and I never will. Our struggle will continue, and we will force the government to its knees.”

Courtesy: The Mooknayak

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