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Dravidian ecosystem is at it... once again!
Dear Readers,
One cannot deny the reality of historical caste-based discrimination. At the same time attack on Hindu Dharma in the name of caste is not new.
More often than not attack on the caste system is more about 'eradicating Sanatana Dharma' than social justice. This is especially true for the Dravidian ecosystem.
What's happening: Retired Madras High Court Justice K Chandru is engaging in a similar mischief now.
In a report submitted to the Tamil Nadu government, he has recommended banning coloured wristbands, rings, and forehead marks (tilak) in schools claims to prevent caste clashes.
🤷🏽 But there's more to it than meets the eye. The real issue is Colonial Mislabeling. Tilak and religious threads aren't just caste markers; they represent Hindu Dharma. Mislabeling by colonisers has led to such misunderstandings.
Contrary to what Justice Chandru suggests, some wrist threads are spiritual, not caste-related.
Caste vs. Dharma: Some wristbands may signify caste, and yes, teens do flaunt them, but many have deep religious significance representing vows or penance.
Mixing these up tramples on Hindu students' rights: There have been reports of Hindu students facing humiliation in non-Hindu schools, with tragic consequences. Yet, these incidents are often underreported.
Remember his casteist and misogynistic remarks against the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman?
Justice Chandru misses several key points: True efforts to eradicate caste-based animosities should also address how castes are portrayed in popular culture.
Tamil movies often stereotype and glorify certain castes and violence, influencing young minds. Yet, this aspect is ignored in Chandru's report.
🛕 What now? Hindu organisations must clearly separate caste from Dharma. They need to push for policies that distinguish between religious and caste symbols.
Protect religious symbols: Ban on tilak should be condemned. Justice requires respecting religious symbols, not banning them under the guise of social harmony.
Justice Chandru's recommendations are a veiled assault on Hindu traditions. A bonafide attempt towards justice and social harmony wouldn't compromise our cultural and religious identities.
Here's a link to Aravindan Neelakandan's piece for a more detailed read on the issue.
Until tomorrow,
Anmol N Jain
