Dalit leaders burn Manusmriti, seek strong action against caste discrimination
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
Chittoor – Andhra Pradesh: Leaders of various Dalit organisations staged a symbolic protest at the Dr. B R Ambedkar statue in Chittoor city on Thursday, burning copies of the Manusmriti and demanding decisive action to eradicate caste discrimination from society.
Protest against caste-based ideology
Dalit leaders alleged that caste discrimination continues to prevail due to the ideological influence of the Manusmriti, which they described as a symbol of the caste system. Raising slogans, protesters called for the complete rejection of texts and practices that legitimise social inequality.
Recalling Ambedkar’s historic struggle
Speakers recalled December 25, 1927, when Dr. B R Ambedkar burned the Manusmriti at Mahad in Maharashtra as part of a historic movement for Dalit self-respect. They said Ambedkar’s act marked the beginning of an organised struggle against caste oppression.
Constitution versus discrimination
Leaders noted that Ambedkar, a globally respected intellectual, framed the Indian Constitution to address caste inequalities. However, they expressed anguish that discrimination persists even today under the guise of Sanatana Dharma, with Dalits and minorities facing continued exclusion and violence.
Call to protect constitutional values
All India SC/ST United Forum State General Secretary Srirangapalli Munuswamy demanded strict government action to eliminate caste discrimination and safeguard constitutional values, stressing that equality, fraternity and social justice are impossible without rejecting such discriminatory ideologies.
The protest was attended by Dalit Praja Vedika State President Kommita Dhananjay Rao, All India Dalit Rights Forum District President V Damodaram, MRPS District President Pulikanti Ramesh, TDP leaders Raja, Nagabhushanam, Ramanachari, and others.
