‘Untouchability still prevalent’

‘Untouchability still prevalent’

Shimla, September 13

Even seven decades after Independence, untouchability is still being practised in the state. “The illegal practice is prevalent in the state and is also being enforced more forcefully. In the last couple of years, many Dalits were killed just because they spoke against the practice,” said Vivek Kashyap, convener of the Dalit Shoshan Mukti Manch, here yesterday. “There has been a marked increase in violence against Dalits in the last few years,” he added.

Kashyap said, “Untouchability is more visible in the districts where local deities hold the sway. In Shimla, Kullu, Sirmaur and Kinnaur, Dalits are still not allowed to enter temples or touch the deities.” — TNS

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