Date:17/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/12/17/stories/2006121703990600.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Denial of entry to Dalits condemned

Special Correspondent

HYDERABAD: AICC SC cell chairman Yogendra Makwana has called upon Dalits in the country to observe restraint despite provocation and be united to fight for their rights.

Mr. Makwana was speaking at the maiden meeting of the newly constituted SC cell's executive of the Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee here on Saturday.

Expressing anguish at the denial of entry of Dalits into the Puri Jagannath temple in Orissa, he said such acts hurt their sentiments.

He complimented Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy for his concern towards the poor.

Distribution of agriculture land to the poor was a noteworthy act, he said.