Caste discrimination persists in rural Andhra Pradesh, decades after inddependence

Kalyanadurgam – Andhra Pradesh: Despite 78 years of independence, caste-based discrimination and untouchability persist in rural Kalyanadurgam, with Dalits still facing indignities like the “two-tumbler” system in hotels and barbershops.

Plight of Dalits in rural areas

In villages across the Kalyanadurgam constituency, Dalits continue to face entrenched caste discrimination. Despite legal protections, societal norms and practices deeply rooted in caste hierarchy subject Dalits to humiliation and denial of basic dignity. In areas like Kurakulapalli, Jallipalli, Chennampally, and Ankampally, as well as Brahmasamudram and Beluguppa mandals, Dalits are barred from equal treatment in many public spaces.

“Two-Tumbler” system in hotels

One of the most degrading practices still prevalent in these areas is the “two-tumbler” system, where Dalits are served in separate glasses and plates, often in full view of other patrons. In local hotels, Dalits are handed specific utensils reserved only for them, reinforcing an enduring sense of exclusion and inferiority. The practice is a stark reminder of the enduring caste-based barriers that continue to oppress Dalit communities.

Discrimination in barbershops

The bias extends beyond hotels; even barbershops in these villages engage in discriminatory practices. Many refuse to provide Dalits with the same services as other customers, denying them the dignity of equal treatment in routine grooming. This exclusion underscores the pervasiveness of caste-based bias in everyday interactions.

Failure of authorities to act

Despite the ongoing discrimination, public representatives and government officials have made little headway in addressing caste-based inequities in these areas. While laws exist to protect Dalits, enforcement remains weak, allowing these discriminatory practices to persist unchallenged in many rural parts of the state.

JAC calls for urgent action

In response to the ongoing discrimination, the SC/ST JAC Taluka Committee submitted a memorandum to the Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) of Kalyanadurgam on Monday, to implement measures ensuring equal treatment of Dalits in hotels and barbershops. Committee members, including Chelimappa, Vannuru Swami, and Chanamalli Narasimhulu, have called on local authorities to prioritize the dignity and rights of Dalits and put an end to the deeply ingrained caste-based discrimination that continues to divide rural communities