Protest to condemn assault

CHENNAI: Members of the Aathithamizhar Peravai are all set to stage a protest in Chennai condemning the alleged assault on Arunthathiyar (Dalit) Woman Panchayat President Krishnaveni from Thazhaiyuthu, Tirunelveli district, which happened in mid June.The protest is scheduled for September 6 and will be supported by other Arunthathiyar Associations like Arunthamizhar Viduthalai Iyakkam, Tamil Nadu Chakkiyar Arunthathiyar Sangam and other Dalit outfits. Aathiyamaan, Founder President of Aathithamizhar Peravai, said in a press meet, “We strongly condemn the attack on Panchayat President Krishnaveni. It is high time the government took strong measures to protect Dalits in higher positions.”Aathiyamaan also said, “We demand a compensation from the government to the tune of `10 lakh, apart from providing a government job to her family member. Krishnaveni also requires money for treating her left hand, which has been grievously injured. She should also receive good medical care.”Krishnaveni(36) from Thazhaiyuthu was allegedly assaulted when she was returning home in an autorickshaw in June, which caused her grievous injuries in the head, neck and hands. A mother of two, she belongs to Arunthathiyar Community. After being elected to the post of panchayat president two years ago, Krishnaveni started taking independent decisions much to the distaste of the Vice President Meerankani (55), a Muslim who belongs to a dominant community.