NCSC chief holds probe into 'discrimination' against Dalits in Nagapatinam

National Commission for Scheduled Castes Chairman P L Puniya on Saturday held a spot inquiry into the alleged discrimination against Dalits in the use of a funeral pathway at a village in Nagapatinam district.

Puniya visited Thirunalkondacherry and interacted with various sections of the residents as part of his probe into the alleged discrimination which came to fore when the body of a 100-year old Dalit was not allowed to be carried through a particular path following "objections" by caste Hindus.

Talking to reporters, Puniya said he would submit a detailed report to the commission and assured appropriate action.

Sellamuthu passed away on January 3 and his family members wanted to take the body to burial ground through a particular route as their regular funeral pathway was full of bushes and thorns.

However, caste Hindu members raised objection to this following which Sellamuthu's grandson had moved the Madras High Court.

On January 4, the HC directed the district administration and police to swiftly act on his plea for permission to use the pathway to the burial ground.