Dalits entry into temple spark tension

Villupuram, Tamil Nadu, Sep 15 (UNI) A reported attempt by Dalits to enter into a temple at Kosapadi Village of the district this morning caused tension leading to police lathicharge.

Police said the Dalits of the village decided to celebrate a festival in the temple today. However, this was objected to by the Caste Hindus.

Following conciliatory talks by Kallakurchi RDO Jayapaul last evening, it was decided to allow entry to the Dalits up to the second gate of the temple.

However, this morning, about 50 Dalits reportedly gatecrashed into the temple and went inside.

Infuriated villagers stoned the 30-odd policemen who were standing on guard before the temple resulting in the lathicharge.

In the melee, five police personnel, including Sankarapuram SI Rathanasabapathy were injured. Sources said reinforecments were being rushed from Cuddalore to defuse the situation.

Meanwhile, about 150 Dalits staged a road roko at Sanakarapuram protesting the denial of entry by the villagers.

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