MADURAI, INDIA, December 25, 2008: After a decade-long struggle, Dalits have legally cast down a ban imposed on them and entered the Kannanallur Mariamman temple in Panthapuli village, Terunelveli district.
District collector G.Prakash and Superintendent of Police Asra Garg led the Dalits into the temple, meeting no resistance, although some caste Hindus resented the entry.
The temple, which was closed for nearly 10 years due to a conflict between Dalits and upper castes, has been opened and poojas will be performed on a regular basis by all, officials said.