The Hindu : History of sorts

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Tuesday, Oct 28, 2003

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

History of sorts

Sir, — Your editorial, "Puppet of Pappapatti" ( Oct. 27 ) should open the eyes of all concerned to the real problem. The tiny village in Tamil Nadu has created history of sorts by the successive resignation of all elected Dalit panchayat presidents.

The State administration should solve this perpetual problem by either asserting its authority, de-reserving the panchayat or by making the village part of another panchayat.

K.D. Viswanaathan,
Coimbatore, T.N.

* * *

Sir, — What a shame that even after 56 years of Independence, we do not allow a Dalit to head a panchayat. The section of Thevars opposed to having a Dalit leader should shed such attitudes.

It should be remembered that Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar, was instrumental in inducting Dalits into the nationalist movement.

R. Jawaher,
Madurai, T.N.

* * *

Sir, — That a Dalit has not been allowed to discharge his democratic duties is not only a serious challenge to Article 17 of the Constitution but a national shame. One way to make the people concerned mend their ways is to withdraw facilities such as transport, water and electric supply.

N.R. Sathyamurty,
Cuddalore, T.N.

* * *

Sir, — No concrete step has been taken to end the age-old enmity between Thevars and Dalits. On the contrary, it has been fuelled by vested interests.

The problem will continue until both the communities shed their reservations. Maybe, it will take a long time before this happens.

Vani S.,
Palani, T.N.

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