State will deal with caste discrimination with an iron hand, says Chief Minister

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Tuesday said the ‘Dravidian model’ seeks to establish t

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Tuesday said the ‘Dravidian model’ seeks to establish the idea of ‘samathuvapuram’ (egalitarian society) and ‘equality in society’ through law and awareness. This has become the model for entire India, he said at the State High-level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee meeting in Chennai.

Stating the State government will deal with caste discrimination faced by Scheduled Castes with an ‘iron hand’, Mr. Stalin said the compensation for those who suffer discrimination has been raised from the bandwidth of ₹85,000-₹8,25,000 to ₹1,00,000-₹12,00,000, based on the severity of the case.

“In meetings to discuss law and order in the State, chaired by Chief Secretary, it has been suggested to complete these cases in less than 60 days. Those who have been affected by caste atrocities will be given ‘relief’ and ‘guarantee for a prosperous future’. I would also like to state the G.O. to provide training for police personnel was issued previously and this training will begin soon,” he said.

Mr. Stalin also said more special courts will be set up in districts such as Salem, Krishnagiri, Madurai and Tirunelveli, where a high number of SC/ST cases remain unresolved.

A financial assistance of ₹30 crore has been given to Tamil Nadu Start up and Innovation Mission to encourage entrepreneurs from SC/ST communities, he added.

The State government will build a modern students hostel in the name of well-known leader, M.C. Rajah, with modern facilities for ₹40 crore. “A group-wise report from all departments to look into shortfall of appointment of Adi Dravidars has been taken. A note has been sought from Human Resources and Law departments and, soon, action will be taken,” said Mr. Stalin.