KARUR: The hard-earned truce between Dalits and Caste Hindus of Lingathuparai, who were at loggerheads over allowing the former into the Sri Mariamman temple, ended on Saturday after the two sides traded blows over a petty issue. Two persons suffered injuries and admitted in a hospital.
According to sources, clashes broke out right at day break following an argument over a missing gate on the temple premises. Every thing seemed normal on Friday when Dalits and Caste Hindus organised poojas in separate batches from 5 am to 10 pm with police permission.
The Dalits held congregations and organised Annadhanam between 5 am and 6 pm, while Caste Hindus worshiped from 6 pm to 10 pm with tight security measures in place. On Saturday morning, S Pandian, a Dalit and treasurer of the temple trust, questioned the missing iron gate. Soon members of both communities gathered at the temple followed by heated exchanges and fisticuffs.
In the melee, Pandian and a Caste Hindu Perumal suffered injuries and admitted to Karur GH. Both sides lodged separate complaints with Aravakurichi police and investigations are on.
The peace talks convened by the DSP failed as caste Hindus gave the talks a skip.
It may be recalled that a fortnight ago, Dalits of the village had threatened to embrace Islam citing denial of temple entry during the festival conducted by Caste Hindus. The issue was resolved after five rounds of peace talks.