A deeply disturbing incident in the Kakori area of Lucknow has sparked outrage and concern over caste-based violence. A 65-year-old Dalit man, suffering from a chronic respiratory illness, reportedly involuntarily urinated near the steps of a temple when he was unable to reach the restroom. Instead of assistance, the elderly man was allegedly subjected to degrading humiliation. The accused, identified as Swamikant alias “Pammu”, allegedly forced him to lick the spot as a form of “purifying” the temple, made him clean the area with water, and verbally abused him with casteist slurs.
Following the victim’s complaint, the police registered a case under sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act (SC/ST Act) and arrested the accused. Authorities say investigations are underway, including verifying whether the victim was made to lick or merely touch the spot.
The incident has triggered widespread condemnation across political lines, with the Samajwadi Party (SP) and other parties calling it a “blot on humanity”. They demand strict action and systemic change to protect the dignity of marginalized communities.
This episode underscores the urgency of addressing caste discrimination, even as the police investigation continues and public scrutiny intensifies.me
