Dalit Community Seeks Government Intervention to Resume Temple Construction in Puducherry

PUDUCHERRY— Members of a Dalit community in Vinayagam Pattu village, Mannadipet commune, have urged the government to intervene and facilitate the completion of a temple construction that was halted due to opposition from a section of non-Dalit residents. Petitions have been submitted to the Chief Minister, Home Minister, and the District Collector.

The construction work was suspended following resistance from certain non-Dalit villagers. The Dalit community initiated the project after the Muthumariamman temple, built 18 years ago, began deteriorating, exacerbated by recent floods. Additionally, the old temple, situated in the middle of a road, has been causing traffic congestion and obstructing emergency services.

Sources indicate that Dalit residents, with financial contributions from both Scheduled Caste (SC) members and non-Dalits, began constructing a new temple on government-owned land located behind the damaged structure. However, opposition from a section of non-Dalit residents led to tensions in the village.

Acting on a complaint filed on February 1, the Superintendent of Police called upon members of the Adi Dravidian community, advising them to avoid confrontation and to report any threats. Subsequently, local authorities ordered a halt to the construction, citing the need to maintain law and order.

Political leaders, including those from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], have condemned the suspension of construction, stating that denying the Dalit community the right to build a place of worship is unjust.

CPI(M) state secretary S. Ramachandran urged the government to ensure that construction resumes peacefully with the support of all communities. The party has also demanded action against individuals allegedly responsible for inciting tensions.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation, aiming for a resolution that upholds both social harmony and the community’s religious rights.