FIR Filed After Dalits Forced Off Chairs at School Independence Day Event

A First Information Report has been registered in the Bhilwara district of Rajasthan after members of the Dalit community reported that they were asked to leave their seats and sit on the ground at a program marking Independence Day held in a government school. This complaint has been made by two persons aged 35 years and 37 years respectively from village Bhakliya, who informed that the incident took place on 15th August in front of school children, teachers and other people residing in the locality. It is alleged that some people came to them when they occupied seats and raised objections against their sitting on the seats.

Chairs Row Sparks Caste Discrimination Complaint

There is outrage concerning seating in rows. The issue raised revolves around the discriminatory practices carried out because of the cast of people. Those complaining say that they had to vacate their seats and were threatened that the institution in which two of their womenfolk work would close down. This made them feel humiliated and embarrassed. The incident occurred during an event held to celebrate a particular day at school. The entire incident took place in view of everyone. Several videos of the incident were put on the internet, where one sees people quarrelling when children are seated nearby. Those complaining say that they have recordings and are ready to submit the same.

Police initiate probe into Bhilwara case

As per information from the police station, the case is currently being investigated by the Deputy Superintendent of Police who heads the Mandal circle. It was also stated by some people living in the area that other members of a different community had not attended the function due to dissatisfaction. There was a delay in the reporting of the case due to the death of one person in the village. Five persons have been booked for committing offenses under the Indian laws protecting Scheduled Castes/Tribes.