Temple locked following dispute over entry of Dalits in Tamil Nadu

Salem: Prohibitory orders were on Tuesday clamped in 21 villages in the district and a temple locked by revenue officials apprehending trouble after Adi Dravidar community people were allegedly barred from attending its consecration slated tomorrow by caste Hindus.

Prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC were promulgated in the villages, including Thirumalaigiri where the Lord Shiva temple is located, as tension prevailed in the region following the dispute over participation of the Adi Dravidar (Dalits) community people in the consecration, police said.

According to police, the Shiva temple had been renovated at a cost of Rs crore by collecting donations. Ahead of the consecration, the dominant Vanniyar community representatives allegedly refused to allow Adi Dravidars from offering worship at the temple tomorrow, leading to a near-clash between them.

Revenue and police officials rushed to the village and made attempts to pacify the warring communities and sort out the problem but could not succeed.

In view of the situation, Salem Revenue Divisional Officer Sheik Moideen ordered the temple to be locked and clamped prohibitory orders banning entry of anyone into the temple and gathering near it, police said.

Police pickets have been posted in the village and Salem Police Commisioner A Amalraj visited the spot and inspected security arrangments.