Divergent Realities: Dalit Groom Faces Violent Attack in MP, Rajput Community Honors Dalit Bride in Rajasthan

Gwalior/Ajmer- In India, reports of caste-based discrimination persistently surface, with Dalit grooms frequently facing attacks and assaults while leading wedding processions or riding horseback. Recently, two contrasting incidents have garnered attention: one in Madhya Pradesh where discrimination prevailed, and another in Rajasthan where the Rajput community set a commendable example by celebrating a Dalit bride, honoring her with the symbolic gesture of riding a horseback, akin to a son.

In Gwalior district of Madhya Pradesh, a Dalit groom faced a violent attack orchestrated by casteist individuals. Stripped from his horseback, he endured physical assault while his wedding procession was marred by acts of vandalism.

The attackers, reportedly agitated by the procession passing their residence, resorted to despicable actions. They shattered the horse's canopy, threw it into a drain, and damaged the lighting arrangements. Moreover, they unleashed caste-based epithets at the groom and his party, adding insult to injury.

To intensify the assault, the perpetrators resorted to throwing water from rooftops and even fired guns and brandished swords amid the wedding festivities.

This reprehensible display of aggression highlights the entrenched caste-based animosity prevalent in certain pockets of society.

Prompt action was taken by the authorities, with the groom's brother filing a case against the assailants for assault under the SC-ST Atrocities Act at the Karahiya police station.

The gravity of the situation is evident in the First Information Report (FIR), which details how the groom, Nares Jatav, was forcibly removed from his horse and subjected to physical violence. The attackers showed no restraint, targeting not only the groom but also individuals providing music for the celebration.

Equipment such as DJ setups faced destruction, with disco lights shattered and attempts made to dismantle the sound system.

Rinku Jatav, a relative of the groom, revealed that the accused objected vehemently to the groom's procession passing by their residence. In addition to the physical assault, the groom's valuable gold chain was forcibly taken.

Identified as Sanjay, Dalbir, Sandeep, and Anil Rawat, the accused resorted to extreme measures, including firing gunshots and brandishing swords, to intimidate the wedding party.

Upon receiving information, the police promptly intervened. After defusing the situation and hearing both sides, they allowed the wedding procession to continue.

However, complaints have been lodged from the opposing party as well. They allege that the wedding attendees engaged in extortion by demanding money and causing disturbance through their dancing.

ASP Niranjan Sharma, speaking to The Mooknayak, confirmed the incident, stating that an attack indeed occurred during the wedding procession, leading to a complaint of assault against the groom.

He mentioned that the case has been officially registered and that allegations of indecent behavior towards women from the opposing party are also being investigated by the police.

Rajput Community Honors Dalit Bride in Rajasthan

In another heartening incident, in Ajmer, Rajasthan, members of the Rajput community orchestrated a unique celebration for a Dalit bride.

Sakshi, the 19-year-old daughter of Kailash Meghwal from Lohagal village, was honored with a traditional procession, riding on horseback. Drums resounded and trumpets blared as she was led through the village. The reins of the horse were graciously held by Ghanshyam Singh Banwara, the State President of the Aam Janata Party, along with the State Vice President, Shyam Singh.

This remarkable event unfolded on a Tuesday night preceding Sakshi's wedding. 14-yr old Shubham Singh Banwara, assisted Sakshi in adorning a turban, a significant symbol of honor and respect.

Following this, the Rajput family extended a gracious invitation to Sakshi and her family for a sumptuous royal feast, adhering to Rajasthani customs. The grand celebration took place at the Garden Restaurant in Lohagal, attended by a multitude of well-wishers who showered blessings upon Sakshi. Photos capturing this extraordinary gesture swiftly circulated across social media platforms.

Ghanshyam Singh Banwara, the State President, emphasized the prevailing negativity surrounding the Dalit community in society. He condemned the cowardly act of denying Dalit grooms the opportunity to ride horses in some regions.

Highlighting the longstanding support of the Rajput community for Dalits, Banwara stressed the importance of initiatives like these in eradicating notions of superiority and inferiority.

He further revealed that Kailash Meghwal, Sakshi's father and his old friend, expressed a heartfelt desire to celebrate his daughter's wedding akin to that of a son. Hence, Sakshi was honored with the symbolic gesture of riding on horseback while adorned in a turban, symbolizing dignity and equality.