Bhopal- In a shocking incident of caste-based discrimination and abuse, a Dalit man from Chitai Purwa village in Mauganj district of Madhya Pradesh faced severe harassment simply for sitting on a chair. The incident came to light when a video of the alleged abuse went viral on social media, showcasing the ordeal of Ashok Saket, a member of the Scheduled Caste community.

Ashok reported that after lodging a complaint with the police, unidentified individuals attacked his house, breaking the door and issuing threats, saying, "You filed a police complaint; now be ready to face the consequences."

The incident occurred in Chitai Purwa, a village under the jurisdiction of the Laur police station in Mauganj district. On the morning of November 10, Ashok Saket was sitting on a chair outside his house when a local resident, Mayank Dwivedi, passed by. Mayank reportedly became enraged at the sight of Ashok seated and began hurling casteist slurs at him.

Mayank allegedly said, "You are from a lower caste; you have no right to sit on a chair in front of us." In response, Ashok tried to reason with him, stating that he was sitting outside his own house and that this should not concern anyone. However, Mayank's anger escalated, and he continued to abuse Ashok with caste-based insults.

Police Complaint and Allegations Against Authorities

Ashok filed a police complaint regarding the incident, and the video of the altercation quickly went viral, drawing widespread attention. However, Ashok also alleged mistreatment by police officers.

Speaking to The Mooknayak, Ashok stated, "When I went to the Laur police station to file a complaint, the police did not take my grievances seriously. Instead, they used casteist slurs against me, which was deeply hurtful. Although the FIR was eventually registered, the behavior of the police was disheartening."

Ashok recounted that after registering the FIR, unidentified individuals attacked his house. On the evening of November 10, shortly after he returned from the police station, some individuals broke into his house, damaged the door, and issued threats. They warned him, saying, "You filed a complaint with the police; now face the consequences."

Ashok’s family has appealed to the police for immediate action against the attackers.

Reactions from Dalit Leaders

Responding to the incident, Pradeep Ahirwar, President of the Scheduled Caste (SC) wing of Congress in Madhya Pradesh, condemned the act. He remarked, "Incidents of caste-based discrimination and violence are still rampant in our society. This unfortunate incident highlights the deep-rooted casteism that persists. The government must take strict action against the culprits to ensure such incidents are not repeated."

The Constitution of India provides strong safeguards against caste-based discrimination. Article 17 abolishes untouchability and prohibits caste-based discrimination. Additionally, the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, criminalizes casteist abuse, physical assault, and damage to property. The Act prescribes strict penalties for offenders, categorizing such acts as serious criminal offenses.

Dalit organizations and social activists have also condemned the incident, calling for justice for the victim and action against the perpetrators. They emphasized the need for raising awareness and promoting sensitivity to eradicate caste-based discrimination. They noted that while legal measures are essential, societal change and greater awareness are crucial to ending such injustices.

The Mauganj police confirmed that an FIR has been registered, and investigations are underway. Speaking to The Mooknayak, Superintendent of Police Rasna Thakur stated, "Strict action will be taken against the accused. The complaint about police misconduct has not been officially received, but if such allegations are found true, appropriate action will be taken against those involved."

The video of this incident continues to circulate on social media, sparking outrage and demands for justice across the state.