Minister rures prevalence of untouchability

Mysuru: Revenue minister V Srinivas Prasad released the six-volume magnum opus 'Seematheetha Kannada Sahitya Charithe' edited by Kuvempu Institute of Kannada Studies professor and noted Dalit writer Aravinda Malagatti at Crawford Hall auditorium on Monday.
Prasad also released the revised volumes (3, 5 and 7) of Kannada 'Vishwakosha' (encyclopedia) edited by professor R Ramakrishna, three books on 'Sri Kanakadasa Keerthane' by T N Nagaratna, 'Sakala Vaidyasamhita Sarannana' by B S Sannaiah and B M Geetha and 'Nidhi-Nipeksha' by Nilagiri Talwar.
Speaking on the occasion, Prasad said untouchability is practised in many parts of the state. "The ghastly incident in the neighbouring Mandya district, where a Hindu girl was murdered because she loved a Dalit boy, shows that people believe in untouchability and caste discrimination even in the 21st centaury. Whenever a person befriends another, the first thing both of them check is each other's caste and community. People should come out from that mentality and think beyond that," he advised.
Prasad said that people should read good literature to broaden their knowledge.
Kannada and culture minister Umashree said: "Writers during 16th to 19th century failed to recognize Dalits and the downtrodden in their literature. There should be more books on them. Youths should be involved as they are more eager and enthusiastic in digging out truth," she added. Replying to Malagatti's demand on paying the pending amount of Rs 1 crore to Kuvempu Kannada Studies by the department of Kannada and culture, Umashree said that the amount has been paid, and action will be initiated to pay the remaining Rs 1 crore.