Kannada and Culture Department Director Booked Under SC/ST Act

Quick Summary

• An FIR was filed against K.M. Gayathri, Director of the Department of Kannada and Culture, for allegedly abusing a Dalit artist in her office.
• The complaint was registered by 55-year-old Jogila Siddaraju under sections of the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and other charges including voluntarily causing hurt and intentional insult.
• Siddaraju alleged that on July 11, when he approached Gayathri’s office to claim pending remuneration for artists from three years ago, she abused him after discovering his caste.
• He claimed that Gayathri threw a computer mouse pad at him in anger and forcibly took the mobile phone from his associate who tried to record the incident.
• Siddaraju further submitted a plea to the Chief Minister seeking action against K.M. Gayathri.

indian Opinion Analysis

This case brings attention to critical issues surrounding caste discrimination and workplace conduct within government institutions in India. While allegations under specific acts like the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act highlight concerns about deep-seated social biases, they also underscore challenges in enforcing protections intended for marginalized communities. The claim that remuneration has been delayed raises broader questions about systemic inefficiencies affecting artists dependent on government support.

It will be important for authorities to examine this matter thoroughly-not just to address individual grievances but also for larger accountability measures within public offices. This case could serve as an possibility to revisit anti-discrimination policies and streamline processes aimed at strengthening equitable access across vulnerable groups such as Dalits or other minorities impacted by institutional delays or bias.

Published: July 14, 2025
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