Dalit Teen Attacked in Caste-Based Vendetta in Thoothukudi

A 17-year-old Dalit student from Thoothukudi was brutally attacked by three individuals belonging to a dominant caste near a bus stop. This incident, believed to stem from rivalry over a Kabaddi tournament, highlights the ongoing caste tensions in Southern Tamil Nadu. Authorities promise a thorough investigation.

A 17-year-old Dalit student was brutally assaulted by three individuals near a bus stop in Srivaikuntam, Thoothukudi district, police revealed on Tuesday. The victim, Devandhira Raj, hailing from Ariyanayagapuram, was attacked near Kattarimangalam while traveling to school.

According to the police, the assailants, identified as members of a dominant caste from a nearby village, pushed Raj off the moving bus and attacked him with a sickle. The attack left him with serious injuries, necessitating immediate medical attention.

Lakshmanan (19), one of the attackers, has been apprehended, and two others have been detained. The case has been registered under several sections including the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Viduthala Chiruthaigal Katchi leader, MP Thirumavalvan, condemned the attack, urging the Tamil Nadu government to address caste-based violence in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)