Cells to deal Dalit issues http://www.indiapress.org/gen/news.php/The_Hindu/400x60/0
Staff Reporter Focus on education, culture Cells to coordinate between aggrieved Dalits and the State SCs, STs to be sensitised on their privileges NELLORE: In a bid to address problems pertaining to Dalits besides empowering them on many fronts, 'SC and ST Ikya Vedika of Nellore', has set up various cells. "With most of the Dalits being illiterates or semi literates, formation of a platform became inevitable to ensure educational, cultural, and economic empowerment of Dalits. Hence the Ikya Vedika, which is an apolitical association comprising educated and economically empowered Dalits, has taken the initiative of setting up different cells," 'SC and ST Ikya Vedika of Nellore' president Dr. A. Penchalaiah told reporters on Friday. Objectives Outlining the objectives of the forum, Dr. Penchalaiah said the grievance cell, for instance, would function as an intermediary, which would coordinate between the aggrieved Dalits and departments or sections of the Government concerned in a bid to address grievances. "As a whole, the cell will make an effort to develop responsive and accountable attitude among officials to ensure that that there is no laxity in terms of fair deal with Dalits. At the same time it will also sensitise SCs and STs on the Constitutionally guaranteed privileges, Government schemes and other related aspects." The Ikya Vedika president said the Dalits across the district could bring their grievances to the notice of the cell, which has been functioning from Ikya Vedika's office premises at Aravinda Nagar, Nellore either personally or by phone (0861-2328281, 94402-78239) on Sundays. It will in turn takes up their problems or issues to the notice of the officials concerned on Monday. Cultural cell Meanwhile, the cultural cell comprising 'Kala Brindams' will tour each and every village to spread the message of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
