Dalits Move Madras HC For Permission to Conduct ‘Untouchability’ Conference
Madurai: A Dalit Christian forum has moved the Madras High Court bench here seeking police permission for its proposed conference in Sivaganga district aimed at creating awareness about eradicating “untouchability” in Christian community.
When the petition by Federation of Dalit Christian People seeking a direction to police to grant permission for its March 15 state-level conference came up for hearing, Justice P Rajendran directed the police file their counter.
The petitioner said all arrangements for the conference had been made but the Superintendent of Police was not giving permission for it. The Dalits have the right to raise their voice and protest against untouchability. Hence the court should direct the police to give permission for organising the conference.
During the hearing, counsel for police said the venue of the conference was a sensitive area and the participants would have to cross the local Bishop’s House, which would cause law and order problem.
Police also rejected three other locations suggested by the Federation coordinator D Arul Justin Diraviam, saying they were also sensitive areas.
Source: The New Indian Express
