Even in the 21st century, Scheduled Castes (SC) in Tamil Nadu require heavy police protection to celebrate New Year events peacefully. A stark example of this occurred on 1 January 2025, when SC residents of Kurinjakulam organized children’s games on government poramboke land, a celebration that was barricaded and closely monitored by police.
Following opposition from dominant caste groups in the area, approximately 380 officers were deployed to prevent any disruptions. The event was held under the supervision of Sankarankovil Revenue Divisional Officer J. Kavitha, and the games took place between 8 AM and 4 PM.
The children participated in activities such as kabaddi, musical chairs, tug-of-war, blowing balloons, and dance and speech competitions—all under the watchful eye of the police. To ensure security, two checkposts were set up, surveillance cameras were installed, and a mobile toilet was provided. Sources noted that SC residents of Kurinjakulam have previously been subjected to caste-based violence by dominant caste groups.
Historically, tensions have been high in this village. In 1992, four SC individuals were murdered, and there have been numerous incidents where SC residents were physically assaulted for wearing shirts or footwear in areas dominated by the upper castes.
Until 2019, SC residents were able to celebrate New Year’s by organizing games on the same government land. However, dominant caste groups petitioned the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court to stop the event. While the court ultimately did not ban the games, it led to the imposition of various restrictions, including time limits for the celebration. Many Kurinjakulam natives working in other cities also returned home to participate in the New Year festivities.
Sankarankovil Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) J Kavitha has issued 18 guidelines to the Scheduled Caste (SC) residents of Kurinjakulam for organising New Year games for children Following a peace committee meeting held on December 27, the RDO extended the timing for the event by two hours, allowing it from 8 am to 4 pm.
To facilitate the event, the local administration has established a series of strict guidelines. These rules prohibit the entry of outsiders, including individuals associated with caste organizations or political parties, into Kurinjakulam. Only children under 18 who are residents of the village are allowed to participate, and those returning for the New Year celebrations must provide their names to the police in advance. The event organizers are also required to submit the names of all participants to the police before the games begin. The use of caste-related flags, banners, slogans, or songs is explicitly banned. Additionally, fireworks or crackers are not allowed before, during, or after the games. Temporary structures, such as pandals, are prohibited, and the activities are restricted to the designated government land. Sound systems can only be used with prior police authorization, and organizers must ensure that no intoxicated individuals are allowed into the venue.
The Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) has issued a stern warning that any violations of these guidelines will lead to the immediate cancellation of the event and legal action against the organizers.
(With inputs from The New Indian Express)
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