Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Apr 21: "There is a need to start a movement within the framework of the existing law, but it should aim at development. Because of loopholes in our legal system, criminals easily go scot-free. There is a need to plug these loopholes," opined Mumbai police officer Daya Nayak. He was speaking after inaugurating the mega Dalit Awareness Convention organized on Monday April 20 at the Board High School ground here.

"If we believe that the upliftment of the dalits is possible just by delivering high-sounding speeches, we are wrong. If the political parties have genuine concern for the dalits, they should implement the Indian Constitution authored by B R Ambedkar in its entirety. Only then the people who are kept out of the mainstream will be able to get justice," opined lecturer Dr Vasudev Belle, main speaker.

"Modernity has been imbibed by Indians; however, this has not succeeded in bringing equality among the citizens. The system of religions and castes, and deep-rooted trust in the ancient scriptures has allowed us to be exploited. At the same time, our organizations have failed to remove this injustice. Dalit Sagharsh Samiti works as a listless organization. We should shed selfishness, properly understand the reality and mingle freely with one another and work for social empowerment, to succeed in our aim," he stressed.

District chief convener of Dalit Sangharsh Samiti Sundar Gujjarabettu presided. Earlier in the day, district Muslim Union president Yaseen Malpe inaugurated a cultural procession which moved through the town's streets.

Shubhada Group of Educational Institutions chief N K Billava, president of the District Working Journalists Association president Gokuldas Pai and several other leaders were present at the dais. Taluk chief convener T Manjunath Giliyar delivered introductory address. District Dalit Students Union convener S S Prasad presented the programme.