Caste-based abuse leads to attack on victim’s home; police accused of mishandling case
Team Clarion
BHOPAL – A shocking case of caste-based harassment has emerged from Chitai Purva village in Madhya Pradesh’s Mauganj district where a Dalit youth was targeted for sitting on a chair outside his house. The incident, which has sparked widespread outrage, came to light after a video of the confrontation went viral on social media.
On the morning of November 10, Ashok Saket from the Scheduled Caste community was sitting outside his home when Mayank Dwivedi, a fellow villager, allegedly verbally abused him with casteist slurs. According to Ashok, Mayank told him, “You are from a low caste, you have no right to sit on a chair in front of us.”
Ashok defended his right to sit, explaining that he was on his own property and causing no harm to anyone. However, this reportedly enraged Mayank further, prompting him to continue with the abuse.
Ashok then lodged a complaint at the Laur police station. After the video of the incident gained traction online, the matter drew wider attention.
The harassment did not end there. Ashok alleged that his house was attacked shortly after he returned from the police station after filing the complaint. “Some people vandalised my house and broke the door. They threatened me, saying, ‘You have complained to the police; be ready to face the consequences,’” he said. The attack has left Ashok’s family shaken, and they are now calling for swift action.
Ashok also accused the police of insensitivity when he went to report the incident. “The policemen used casteist words and did not take my complaint seriously at first,” he claimed. Although an FIR was eventually registered, Ashok said the experience left him deeply hurt.
In response to these allegations, Superintendent of Police Rasna Thakur said, “Strict action will be taken against the culprits. As of now, we have not received any formal complaint regarding police misconduct, but if it is brought to our notice, action will be taken as per the rules.”
The incident has drawn strong reactions from Dalit leaders and activists. Pradeep Ahirwar, state president of the Scheduled Caste Congress, condemned the act, stating, “This incident reflects how deeply entrenched caste discrimination remains in our society. The government must ensure strict punishment for the culprits to prevent such incidents in the future.”
Social organisations have also emphasised the need for greater awareness to address caste oppression. “Laws are important, but social consciousness and sensitivity are equally necessary to uproot casteism,” said one activist.
India’s Constitution provides robust protections against caste-based discrimination. Article 17 abolishes untouchability and makes its practice a punishable offence. Additionally, the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, prescribes stringent penalties for offences such as caste-based abuse, physical assault, and property damage.
The police have assured a thorough investigation into the case. “An FIR has been registered, and the matter is being investigated. We are committed to ensuring justice,” said SP Rasna Thakur.
As the video continues to circulate widely, the case has become a rallying point for calls to end caste-based discrimination and uphold the dignity of marginalised communities.