Dalit houses attacked by caste Hindus near Usilampatti

Over 75 houses, 15 bikes, 10 autos and a TATA Sumo car were damaged in the attack, according to eyewitnesses. As the attack continued, people sought shelter at Nagamalai hillock. Later, when the Dalits returned to their houses, they were shocked at the enormity of the vandalisation.

The Dalits blamed the policemen for being mute spectators. Muthu, a resident, said that a group of caste Hindus came to the hamlet when men were not present and began pelting stones. Women rushed to protect the children, who were playing on streets. “The attack was a planned one and though policemen were present at the spot they did little to bring the situation under control, he said.

Another resident Balraj, a lorry broker, said though they had informed the higher officials, Usilampatti DSP, Radhakrishnan, had given false information to Madurai SP, Manivannan, that members of both the castes were at loggerheads. 

It is said that enmity between the two communities began in the Kali Amman temple festival for which the High Court had given a stay. However, when they proceeded with the festival despite the order, they had informed the Usilampatti RDO, Suganya, and a peace meeting was held in which the DSP supported the dominant community. Ayyankalai, State Joint Secretary, VCK, said, all the caste Hindu men involved in the attack should be booked under the Goondas Act. However, S Vanitha, Sekkanurani inspector, said that a case had been registered and 50 members each from the dominant community and dalits were booked. There will be more arrests after investigations, said the inspector.