Date:30/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/30/stories/2008123053350400.htm

Tamil Nadu

Dalits bid to enter temple stopped by police

Special Correspondent

A total of 110 persons, including Harur MLA B. Delhi Babu, were detained

KRISHNAGIRI: Tension prevailed in Kalkeri village in Thenkanikottai block on Monday when police prevented some dalits from entering the Gangamma and Anajaneyar Temple to offer worship.

A total of 110 persons, including Harur MLA B. Delhi Babu, Communist Party of India (Marxist) State executive member K. Balakrishnan, Krishnagiri district secretary T. Ravindran and 15 dalit women were detained under Section 151 of Cr.PC. They were released in the evening.

The dalits said they had been denied entry into the temple by the caste Hindus since 1983.

The issue was brought to focus by the CPI (M). Peace talks were held before the Tasildhar on October 4 this year in which both communities agreed to resolve the matter amicably.

Dalits claimed that caste Hindus, who took part in the talks, agreed to allow them inside the temple to offer prayers.

But when they announced that they would enter the temple on December 29, a section of caste Hindus, mainly youths, opposed it. They also intimidated the Dalit families in the village.

The CPI (M), however, announced its support to the dalits and decided to lead the temple entry agitation.

When dalits and CPI (M) cadres assembled at the village and attempted to take out a procession to the temple police detained them. Police pickets have been posted in the village.