Dalit leaders demand action against caste-based discrimination

Kathmandu, July 30 :  Dalit community leaders have demanded a stern action against the culprits in a case of caste-based discrimination in Bajhang.     

At a press meet here today, they expressed their serious concern over the demolition of under-construction house of a Dalit by a group of non-dalits at Syaldhunga of Bitthadchir rural municipality-7. The incident happened on July 26.     

 A group of over 40 non-dalits allegedly demolished the house being constructed by Pudke Okhada citing that he was not allowed to build the structure over the house of the 'Brahman' caste people.     

It is claimed that the group damaged total property worth Rs 1.2 million during the incident. The group is accused of practising and promoting caste-based discrimination, of verbal abuse, beating and the damaging the property.     

During the programme, they also drew the government's attention towards the discrimination meted out to the couple (Saraswoti Khadka of Gauriganga municipality-7 in Kailali and Suresh Bishwakarma of Godavari municipality-9) for observing an inter-caste marriage.     

 Former Minister of State and UML central member Asha BK said the case of caste-based discrimination should not be politicised and be dealt with legally.     

 CPN (UM) central leader Afilal Okheda said the entire Dalit community continued to suffer caste-based discriminations, he demanded action against tall those guilty in the crime in accordance with the Caste-based Discrimination and Untouchability (Offence and Punishment) Act- 2068 BS (2011). (RSS)