Dalit Man Seeks to Withdraw Complaint of Caste-Based Temple Discrimination in Uttarakhand

Pauri: A day after filing a complaint against temple authorities for allegedly denying entry for his daughter's wedding due to caste discrimination, a Dalit man has sought to withdraw his complaint, stating that he had lodged it under pressure.

Father of Bride Files Withdrawal Application

The bride’s father, Nakul Das, submitted an application to SDM Sadar Rekha Arya on Wednesday, requesting the withdrawal of his complaint.

In his application, Das stated, "I filed the complaint under the influence of Mandir Vikas Mission officials." He clarified that he wanted to withdraw the allegations as the temple priest did not use any indecent or casteist language against him.

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Marriage at Temple Amid Financial Hardship

Das mentioned that his daughter’s wedding was fixed on March 5 with a youth from Bedgaon. Due to financial constraints, he decided to hold the ceremony at Adi Shakti Maa Bhuvaneshwari Temple in Sanguda (Bil Khet), located in Maniyarsyun Patti of Tehsil Pauri.

He also pointed out that a dispute was ongoing between the Adi Shakti Maa Bhuvaneshwari Mandir Vikas Mission officials and the priests of Mandir Pooja Seva Samiti, implying that the incident might have been influenced by the existing tension between the groups.

Police Investigation Continues

Despite Das’s request to withdraw the complaint, authorities confirmed that an investigation is still ongoing.

Circle Officer Trivendra Singh Rana stated, "A case has already been registered in the matter, and the investigation is underway."

The case has sparked discussions on caste discrimination and temple entry rights, with officials continuing to probe the incident to determine the facts.