Dalits, Tribals Face Discrimination In Pension Distribution, Alleges JAC

Kalyanadurgam – Andhra Pradesh (Before It’s News – IC): Sake Hari, State President of the JAC of SC and ST Associations, has accused the government of unfair treatment in distributing pensions to Dalits and tribals, raising concerns over systematic exclusion and threats against marginalized communities.

• Unfair practices in pension distribution

Addressing a press conference at the R&B Guest House in Kalyanadurgam on Friday, Sake Hari criticized the coalition government, led by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, for perpetuating injustices against Dalits and tribals. He alleged that SCs and STs are being unfairly targeted with threats of ineligibility for pensions, despite their dire need and eligibility.

• Impact on vulnerable groups

Hari highlighted the plight of elderly individuals, disabled persons, and widows, who are being denied pensions under various pretexts. He termed this denial of essential financial support as “grossly unjust” and emphasized that marginalized sections are bearing the brunt of government negligence.

• Suppression of voices

The JAC president recounted his arrest during an attempt to raise the issue with the Chief Minister during a pension distribution event in Madakashira. He claimed that since then, pensions for SCs and STs have been deliberately withheld, leaving many without their rightful support.

• Neglect of artisans and workers

Hari pointed out the dire situation of drum artists and leather workers, whose pensions remain unaccounted for. He lamented that government policies have failed to ensure equitable distribution, leaving these communities in the lurch.

• Rising atrocities against marginalized communities

Hari also expressed concern over increasing attacks and atrocities against SCs and STs, stating that the government has shown negligence in addressing these issues. He warned of large-scale movements to demand justice and rectify systemic inequalities.

• Call for immediate action

The JAC has urged the coalition government to:

• Ensure fair and transparent pension distribution to all eligible SCs and STs.
• Address the grievances of marginalized communities without resorting to intimidation.
• Take concrete steps to curb atrocities and discrimination against SCs and STs.

The meeting was attended by JAC Taluk In-charge Chelimappa and district leaders Dona Thimmappa, Obulesu, Easwaraiah, Narayana, Chenmamalla, Narayanaswamy, Ramakrishna, and Dilip, who voiced their solidarity with the movement for justice and equality. 

(Source: IAIJ/BIN/DPJB)