Historic Temple Entry Sparks Tension in Mandya

In a historic event, Dalits in Mandya accessed the Kalabhairaveshwara temple for the first time, leading to tension with the upper caste Vokkaligas. Despite police presence, upper caste members took the Utsava Murthy idol, symbolizing ongoing caste-based tensions in the village.

In a significant and historic breakthrough, Dalits in a Mandya village gained entry to the Kalabhairaveshwara temple on Sunday, igniting tensions with the dominant Vokkaliga community. This temple visit marked the first time Dalits were allowed to worship there, thanks to the intervention of district authorities.

Despite this milestone for the Dalit community, members of the Vokkaliga caste reportedly reacted by removing the 'Utsava Murthy', the temple's festival idol, to conduct their rituals separately outside the temple premises. This act was perceived as a form of protest against the authorities' decision, highlighting deep-seated caste discrepancies.

Heavy police forces were stationed in Hanakere village to maintain order amidst the escalating tensions. The temple, once inaccessible to Dalits, has recently come under the control of the state's Religious Endowment Department after being rebuilt, but the struggle for equal religious rights continues as peace talks have thus far been ineffective.

(With inputs from agencies.)