Date:29/07/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/07/29/stories/2007072957820500.htm

Tamil Nadu

VCK to list temples denying entry to Dalits

Special Correspondent

VILLUPURAM: The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi is compiling district-wise data of temples functioning under the aegis of the Hindu Religious and Cultural Endowment Department, which are denying entry to Adi Dravidars.

The list will be submitted to Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, according to D. Ravikumar, MLA. When the law provided for all sections of society to become archakas, denying entry to temples was its blatant violation, he told reporters.

Condemning the denial of such rights at the Draupadi Amman Temple at Kuladeepamangalam in Thirukkoilur, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi staged a demonstration there on Thursday.

Mr. Ravikumar said Adi Dravidars enjoyed the traditional right to garland the deity at Kuladeepamangalam during the car procession. When they brought a massive garland, costing Rs. 25,000, for the festival on May 6, the caste Hindus asked them to put the garland on the car instead of the deity.

This led to commotion, and consequently, the revenue authorities put the temple under lock and key. The lock was broken open and, in this regard, a case was booked against V.A.T. Kalivardhan, MLA, said Mr. Ravikumar.

He pointed out that the Government had passed legislation that provided for including an Adi Dravida as well as a woman member in temple trusts.