In a shocking incident from Karnataka, a newlywed Dalit couple was allegedly prevented from entering a temple and publicly humiliated in Goni village of Turuvekere taluk in Tumakuru district. Following the circulation of a video of the incident on social media, police have arrested the prime accused, Narayanappa, while a search is underway for other suspects.
According to reports, Pankaja and Puneet had gone to the Arasamma Temple in their village to seek blessings after their wedding. It is alleged that at that time, a man identified as Narayanappa created a scene, claiming to be “possessed” by the deity. Eyewitnesses said the accused shouted that “Dalits cannot enter the temple. Perform your prayers elsewhere and leave immediately.”
In the viral video, the accused is purportedly seen forcing the couple to leave the temple premises. Some others present at the spot have also been accused of supporting the act.
The complainant, Jagadish, the bride’s brother, lodged a complaint at the Turuvekere police station. Police officials said that based on the complaint, an FIR was registered against the accused under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Narayanappa was arrested on Saturday. The FIR also names other individuals whose roles are currently under investigation.
Police have stated that strict action will be taken against anyone found involved in the offence. Under the law, preventing a member of the Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes from entering a place of worship or any public space is a punishable offence.
Following the incident, the administration stepped in to maintain peace. Tahsildar N.A. Kunhi Ahmed and Deputy Superintendent of Police Omprakash convened a peace meeting in the village. Members of both communities were informed about the legal provisions and urged to maintain communal harmony. Officials reiterated a zero-tolerance policy toward untouchability and caste-based discrimination.
The incident comes amid recent tensions in Bagalkote, where stone-pelting and shoe-throwing were reported during a Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti procession, leading to the arrest of eight persons. Authorities, however, have maintained that the law-and-order situation remains under control and that no attempt to escalate communal or social tensions will be allowed.
The episode in Goni village has once again raised concerns about the persistence of caste-based discrimination in rural areas. While Article 17 of the Constitution abolishes untouchability, such incidents highlight the gap between constitutional guarantees and ground realities.
Police said a detailed investigation is underway, and the administration has assured that those found guilty will face strict action in accordance with the law.
