Ambedkar, Hemardi Mallamma's portrait in dustbin leads to huge outrage

BAGALKOT

The incident of Dr BR Ambedkar's portrait being kept in a dustbin at the Social Welfare Department office in the District Administration Building has caused intense outrage in the public sector. Dalit organizations have demanded disciplinary action against the guilty officials for this negligence.

A dustbin was kept outside the Social Welfare Department, and there was a cardboard box with a scrap next to it. When it was checked, the portraits of Shivsharane Hemardi Mallamma and Babasaheb Ambedkar were found along with the scrap. As this incident came to light, Dalit leaders and the public have expressed extreme dissatisfaction.

Prof BK Hennur, Convener of Srinivasa-based DSS, Ganesh Methri, District Convener and Fakirappa Madara, who went to the office of Deputy Director of the Social Welfare Department, Badiger, at the District Administration Building to inquire about the incident, said, “This kind of negligent attitude is not right.” At this time, Deputy Director Badiger spoke in a loud voice and said, “I am not a royalist, I am not afraid of anyone. Whatever you want, complain against me, or fight against me. I am not afraid of anything.” Dalit leaders have accused him of behaving like a dictator. He also allegedly showed a transfer letter from his pocket and threatened, “I will tear out your tongue, don't say anything else.”

Dalit leaders said that they are hurt by the Deputy Director's behavior and the disrespect shown to Ambedkar's portrait. Dalit leaders, who spoke to the District in-charge Minister on the phone in this regard, have demanded immediate disciplinary action against the guilty Deputy Director.

Dalit organizations have demanded immediate disciplinary action against the guilty Deputy Director. “I will inform the District Magistrates and take action,” RB Thimmapur, District in-charge Minister assured.