Shivratri Caste Clash: Dalits Stopped From Entering Temple in MP

Bhopal: A caste clash broke out on the auspicious occasion of Shivratri in Madhya Pradesh.

An argument over offering prayers at a temple in Khargone district led to an all-out battle between two communities on Saturday night, reported NDTV.

At least 15 people were injured in the violent incident.

People belonging to Dalit community complained that some persons from an ‘upper caste’ allegedly stopped them from entering the temple.

They were allegedly told that Dalits can’t pray at the Shiva temple built by people of three other communities in Chhapra village of Sanawad area, 250 km from Bhopal. Heated arguments were followed by a physical clash, police said.

Violence gripped the are as many from both sides resorted to indiscriminate stone-throwing.

“There was heavy stone pelting from both sides. Complaints have been taken from both the parties and action will be taken,” senior police officer Vinod Dixit said.

One of the complaints, filed by Premlal of Dalit community, alleged that a group from Gurjar community stopped Dalit girls from entering the temple.

A counter complaint was also filed, saying that the ‘upper caste’ group was attacked them with weapons.

Police have filed a case against 17 suspects and 25 unidentified people for rioting and other charges.