A shocking incident unfolded in Agra, where a 24-year-old Dalit groom and his companions were allegedly beaten and harassed by a group of 20-25 individuals belonging to the upper caste. The incident took place during a wedding procession passing through Sohalla Jatav Basti on the evening of May 4, as reported by the police.According to the complaint filed by the groom’s mother-in-law, Geeta Jatav, on May 8, the upper caste men armed with sticks and iron rods forcefully removed the groom from the mare, a traditional symbol of honor during the procession.
They proceeded to assault him and others, proclaiming that Dalit grooms were not allowed to ride mares in their village.Geeta further stated that when Dalit men came to the aid of the groom and others at the Radha Krishna Marriage Hall, they too were subjected to violence, while Dalit women were molested. The attackers also disrupted the wedding ceremony by cutting off the power supply to the venue and hurling casteist slurs.The police have registered a case against five named individuals, including Yogesh Thakur, Rahul Kumar, Sonu Thakur, Kunal, and Shishupal, along with 20 unidentified persons, under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. However, no arrests have been made at this time, according to the police.This incident once again highlights the deep-rooted caste discrimination prevailing in some parts of Indian society.
Authorities need to swiftly investigate the matter, apprehend the culprits, and ensure that justice is served. Such acts of violence and oppression have no place in a modern and inclusive society, and steps must be taken to promote equality and harmony among all communities.