Dalit Soldier's Funeral in Karnataka Allegedly Disrupted by Untouchability Practices
In a disturbing incident from Bagalkot district, Karnataka, the funeral of a Dalit ex-serviceman was reportedly marred by alleged practices of untouchability, highlighting persistent social discrimination despite his two decades of service to the nation.
Incident Details and Official Response
The event occurred on Thursday in Chinnapur village, Ilkal taluk, where Hanamantappa Harijan, aged 55, passed away due to health complications. Sources within the Ilkal taluk administration revealed that upon learning of his death, local hotels and shops owned by certain communities abruptly closed their doors, anticipating the arrival of Dalit relatives for the funeral.
Authorities, including Tahsildar Amaresh Pammar, along with officials from police, social welfare, and other departments, swiftly visited the village to address the situation. They convened a peace meeting involving all community representatives. During the discussions, upper-caste individuals claimed they had gone to their fields and typically shut their eateries in the afternoon, denying any discriminatory intent. Following warnings from officials, the shops were reopened.
Relatives' Account and Allegations of Discrimination
Relatives of the deceased Hanamantappa, who traveled from other villages, reported observing that nearly all shops were closed, with only one remaining open. At this shop, they faced further indignity: the shopkeeper insisted on payment via mobile apps, explicitly stating they would not accept cash from Dalits because a Dalit man had died in the village.
"The shopkeeper told us that all shops were shut solely due to the death of a Dalit individual," the relatives recounted. "They seemed to forget that Hanamantappa was a soldier who served the country for 20 years. This blatant practice of untouchability prompted us to call the police on emergency number 112."
Official Silence and Community Reactions
Tahsildar Amaresh Pammar did not respond to calls or messages seeking comment on the incident, leaving questions about administrative oversight unanswered. Meanwhile, videos circulating on social media showed a group of ex-servicemen paying their last respects to Hanamantappa, underscoring the respect he commanded among his peers.
Police sources indicated that another peace meeting is scheduled for March 2 to further address community tensions and ensure such incidents do not recur. This planned intervention aims to foster dialogue and prevent future discrimination, particularly against those who have served the nation.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Challenges
This incident sheds light on the deep-rooted social prejudices that continue to affect Dalit communities in India, even in contexts where individuals have contributed significantly to national service. It raises critical questions about the effectiveness of existing laws and policies designed to combat untouchability and promote social equality.
The alleged actions during the funeral not only dishonor the memory of a veteran but also violate fundamental rights and dignity. As authorities work towards reconciliation, this case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against caste-based discrimination in rural and urban settings alike.
