| The state had passed the rule that only Dalits would be appointed as mid-day meal cooks. This caused an uproar among 'upper caste' communities everywhere and their children began to boycott the food. The state responded by softening the rule, replacing the words 'compulsory appointment' with 'preference will be given' and allowed a dubious 'tradition' to continue. This is a clear sign of Untouchability as is practised in many parts of India. This so-called “tradition” exists despite the fact that the enforcement of any disability arising out of Untouchability is an offence punishable in accordance with law as per the Article 17 of the Indian Constitution. It was drafted in 1949 specifically to eradicate & abolish the practice of Untouchability. Yet 65 years later, the practice still reigns in far too many parts of the country.This is a shocking proof to the fact that caste barriers in India are still alive and strong. This video is a part of the “Article 17” campaign launched by Video Volunteers, in order to urge theNational Commission for Schedule Castes, which is the government body that is constitutionally appointed to direct and implement the safeguards against untouchability, to prosecute cases of untouchability. |
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