Notice to Tamil Nadu government over Dalits' rights violations

The NHRC Friday issued a notice to the Tamil Nadu government, demanding a report on the human rights violations of the Puthirai Vannar community.

Taking cognizance of the matter, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) observed the Puthirai Vannar community in Tamil Nadu is forced to perform dehumanising duties like washing of blood-stained clothes of girls attaining puberty and of mothers after their delivery.

They are also forced to wash the clothes of dead people and their close relatives till the conclusion of last rites, and similar other duties.

"There is no fixed time for their work. Even the remuneration is left to the whims and fancy of the dominant caste. If they refuse to perform such duties, they are subjected to abuse and physical assault and even forced eviction from the village," the commission said in a statement.

Observing the matter raises issue of bonded labour and violation of human rights of Dalits, the commission has issued a notice to the chief secretary, government of Tamil Nadu, directing him to submit a detailed report in the matter within six weeks.