Dalits enter TN temple after 80 years

Scores of dalits entered a temple into which they were denied entry since its inception 80 years ago with police protection defying protests from people from other communities at a village in Tiruvannamalai district. Police said dalits in Thandarampattu village had been urging the government to permit them to enter Muthumariamman temple in the locality and offer prayers to the almighty for the past 80 years. However, people from other communities had been strongly objecting to the entry of dalits into the temple. Dalit representatives shot several petitions urging the Hindu religious and charitable endowments department to ensure their entry into the temple. They proclaimed that they will enter the temple on January 30. Following this, authorities held peace talks with both the communities. Following this, members of the other communities relented and permitted women and children to enter the temple. Dalits said they have planned special poojas to mark their entry into the temple.