Commission orders probe into alleged caste-based skit at Dangal Mela, seeks ATR
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Commission orders probe into alleged caste-based skit at Dangal Mela, seeks ATR
Shimla, July 17,
Himachal Pradesh State Commission for Scheduled Castes (SC Commission) has ordered an inquiry into allegations that a caste-based derogatory skit was staged during the Dangal Mela at Bhanjraru in Chamba district and directed the Deputy Commissioner, Chamba, to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within seven days.
In a communication issued by the Commission’s Member Secretary, Vishrut Bharti (HPAS), the Commission said it had received a complaint on July 13 alleging that students of Government Primary School, Tissa, functioning under Government Senior Secondary School, Tissa, performed a skit during the Dangal Mela held on July 11, 2026.
According to the complaint, the performance allegedly portrayed members of the Scheduled Caste community in a derogatory manner and promoted caste-based stereotypes, hurting the sentiments of the community.
Taking serious note of the allegations, the Commission directed the Deputy Commissioner to conduct a detailed inquiry or, if considered necessary, constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the supervision of a senior officer. The inquiry has been asked to examine the matter in a fair, impartial and time-bound manner.
The Commission has also asked the district administration to ascertain whether the alleged act attracts provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, or any other applicable law.
The Deputy Commissioner has been directed to submit a detailed Action Taken Report to the Commission within seven days. The Commission said it would consider further action after examining the report.
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The Superintendent of Police, Chamba, has been asked to submit a report on the police action taken and extend full cooperation to the inquiry. Director of Elementary Education, Himachal Pradesh, Deputy Director of Elementary Education, Chamba, SDM Churah and the SHO concerned have also been directed to assist the inquiry and ensure appropriate action at their respective levels.
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