NHRC notice to TN Govt on rights violation of Puthirai Vannars

The National Human Rights Commission has issued a notice to Tamil Nadu Government over allegations of human rights violation of Puthirai Vannar community.
Taking cognizance of a complaint that members of the community in the state were forced to perform dehumanizing caste duties like washing of blood stained clothes of girls attaining puberty and women after delivery, the commission has issued a notice, an official release said here today.
"They are also forced to wash the clothes of dead person and their close relatives till the conclusion of last rites and similar other duties. 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," it said.

Observing that the petition raised issue of bonded labour and violation of the human right of dignity of Dalits, the NHRC has issued a notice to the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary directing him to submit a detailed report in the matter within six weeks.