Call for reform to stem caste discord

Congress Working Committee member A.K. Antony has called for a social reformation to stem the rising caste and communal discord in Kerala.

Addressing a Dalit solidarity meet at the KPCC headquarters here on Monday, he said the Congress would spearhead a movement to quell the atrocities against Dalits in the country.

“Educated Dalits in Kerala remain jobless. It is time to think of ensuring jobs for Dalits in the private sector. It is unfortunate that despite strong laws, Dalits still come under attack in the country. The Central government should have taken immediate steps to appeal against the Supreme Court judgment on SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.”

Arrest flayed

Mr. Antony condemned the arrest of Dalit Aikya Vedi leader Geethanandan during the hartal on Monday.

Leader of the Opposition Ramesh Chennithala said the lynching of a tribal youth Madhu in Kerala was the result of the government’s indifferent approach to marginalised communities.

Mr. Chennithala said the government should have supported the hartal called by the Dalit Aikya Vedi on Monday.