Karnataka: 98 get lifer for caste violence; grim reminder of social malaise

In a landmark ruling, the Koppal District and Sessions Court in Karnataka has sentenced 98 people to life imprisonment, with three others receiving five-year terms, in a brutal 2014 case of caste-based violence targeting Dalits in Marakumbi village, Gangavati taluk. The verdict is a reminder of the persistence of caste discrimination, even in the 21st century.

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The horrific incident unfolded on August 28, 2014, when a mob attacked the Dalit colony in Marakumbi, reportedly incited by a small scuffle over a movie ticket the day before. It all started when the main accused, Manjunath, and his friends claimed they had been abused by residents of the SC colony. This claim, unverified, was enough to fuel a violent retaliation. Early that morning, a large group arrived at the Dalit settlement, allegedly hurling casteist slurs and torching homes, leaving families devastated and homeless. Fortunately, no lives were lost.

As many as 117 people were initially charged with assaulting and abusing the residents, and for torching their homes. Since then, 11 accused died, and two minors were referred to the juvenile justice board. Over the years, Marakumbi remained under police surveillance to prevent further escalation, while Dalit rights activists rallied for justice, even marching from Marakumbi to Bengaluru to demand action.

Of 101 found guilty, 98 were sentenced to life imprisonment. Three received lighter sentences due to the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, which exempts ST community members from certain charges.

While the judgment provides a sense of justice, it underscores a somber truth: even today, caste-based violence persists in India. It’s a painful reminder that despite progress, discrimination remains deeply embedded in society. All sentenced individuals are currently held in Ballari Central Jail.