Dalit Mother, Child Face Caste-Based Harassment in Thiruvananthapuram School

Discover the disturbing incident in Thiruvananthapuram where a Dalit woman and her child were subjected to caste-based abuse, triggering legal action and discussions on social justice.

Rafia Tasleem

In a disturbing incident from Thiruvananthapuram, a Dalit woman and her child were allegedly subjected to caste-based abuse by a former school PTA president, sparking outrage and prompting police action under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act-1989. This case underscores the persistent issue of caste discrimination within educational institutions and has led to a broader conversation about social justice and equality.

Allegations of Caste-Based Abuse

The controversy began when a Class I student at Kilimanoor Govt Town UP School was recognized for creating an album featuring rare pictures of former chief minister Oommen Chandy. Following the child’s accolade, a video showcasing the achievement went viral on social media, attracting unwanted attention from Karthika, the accused and former PTA president. Allegedly, under the guise of inquiry, the mother and child were summoned to the school, where they were subjected to public humiliation and caste-based derogatory remarks. This incident not only highlights the misuse of power but also the deep-seated caste biases that continue to plague certain sectors of society.

Legal and Social Repercussions

The Kilimanoor police have registered a case against the accused, marking a significant step towards addressing caste-based discrimination. The legal framework under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act-1989 serves as a critical tool in combating such injustices, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations. The complainant’s account of previous encounters suggests a pattern of targeted harassment, raising questions about the efficacy of anti-discrimination measures within educational settings. As the investigation proceeds, this case may serve as a pivotal moment for reinforcing the importance of safeguarding children’s rights and dignity in schools.

Community Response and Reflection

The incident has elicited a strong response from the community and social justice advocates, calling for immediate action to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students, irrespective of their caste. The reluctance of the child to return to school underscores the traumatic impact such incidents can have on young minds, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change. As society reflects on this case, it becomes imperative to engage in meaningful dialogue about caste, privilege, and equality, with the ultimate goal of fostering a more just and empathetic community.

As the investigation unfolds, the incident at Kilimanoor Govt Town UP School serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in the quest for social justice. It compels us to confront uncomfortable truths about discrimination and to work collectively towards eradicating the shadows of caste from educational institutions. By doing so, we can hope to pave the way for a future where every child can pursue education without fear of prejudice or harassment.

Courtesy : BNN Breaking

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