Janjgir-Champa — A serious case of caste-based abuse
and intimidation has surfaced in Baloda police station limits, where Parmanand
Rathore, husband of the Sarpanch of Navgawan village, has been accused of using
casteist slurs and threatening to kill a Dalit family.
According to the complaint filed by Satish Ghosale, the
accused, accompanied by 50–60 people from his community, allegedly stormed
their home, verbally abused the family using caste-based slurs, and threatened
their lives. The victim also accused the local police of inaction.
Ghosale stated that he first approached the Baloda police
station on June 16 to file a complaint, but was redirected to the AJK (SC/ST
Atrocities) police station. Even after filing the complaint there, no FIR has
been registered. He alleged that the police are repeatedly summoning him and
his family for statements instead of registering the case, causing them immense
mental harassment.
The family claims to be living in fear due to the aggressive
behavior and alleged "goondaism" of the Sarpanch’s husband. Ghosale
also pointed out that he is the brother of a journalist, raising concerns about
press freedom and public safety. “If this can happen to a journalist’s family,
what can other citizens expect?” he questioned.
The growing seriousness of the case has sparked public
concern and scrutiny of the police's inaction.
Demands for FIR and Action:
The victim has urged the police administration to
immediately register an FIR and take legal action against Parmanand Rathore. He
said he still hopes for justice, but delays due to administrative inaction are
eroding that hope.
Public Outcry and Dalit Organization’s Response:
Under the leadership of District Vice President Surendra
Lahare, the Bhim Army Bharat Ekta Mission (Chhattisgarh) has also
stepped in. The organization condemned the caste-based violence and alleged
assault on the Dalit family in Navgawan and demanded immediate legal action.
“If the police fail to act against the accused, we will
launch a phased protest,” the Bhim Army declared.
Rising Questions on Police Accountability:
The case raises serious questions about law enforcement's
role in protecting marginalized communities. “Isn’t it the duty of the police
to promptly respond to a victim’s complaint and file an FIR?” the family asked,
demanding accountability from the authorities.