Date:10/05/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/05/10/stories/2008051054471001.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Caste discrimination

The demolition of a part of the Uthapuram wall in Madurai — which separated Dalits from the rest of the village and denied them access to common utilities — thanks to the concerted efforts of The Hindu, the CPI(M) and the Tamil Nadu government, is heartening. But Uthapuram is only the tip of the iceberg. While we can feel proud of our scientific achievements and the nine per cent growth rate, we hang our heads in shame for being part of a society that classifies a human being on the basis of his or her birth. A casteless society will emerge only when the government abolishes inhuman work such as manual scavenging and stops the ghettoisation of Dalits in the name of Dalitwadas.

Syed Sultan Mohiddin,

Kadapa

* * *

The State government deserves to be appreciated for knocking down a part of the wall that blocked the common pathway and denied Dalits access to areas of common usage. It should now create awareness among caste Hindus on the need to coexist harmoniously, and demolish the entire wall. It is a matter of shame that caste oppression is prevalent in India even after 61 years of independence.

Ritu Sejwal,

New Delhi

* * *

A person cannot help belonging to a caste because it is a tag attached to him or her by virtue of birth. No one, therefore, has a right to take credit for belonging to a caste or deride people belonging to a caste. Caste discrimination, which exists in myriad forms, is a curse on our society. Bringing about a change in the hearts and minds of the people is more important than taking physical action.

S.V.K. Chandran,

Thiruvananthapuram

* * *

The demolition of a section of the controversial wall has created ripples. But many have pointed out that for casteism to be eliminated, it is more important to demolish the rigid mindset of caste Hindus. A breakthrough after 19 years (the wall was built in 1989) no doubt signifies some change of heart among caste Hindus.

The Dalits of the village should be sympathetic towards them and make efforts to change their minds and hearts slowly.

Seshachalam Gopalakrishnan,

Chennai