Justice Served: Six Sentenced to Two Years for Discrimination Against Cook in Government School’s Noon Meal Scheme in Tiruppur
In a significant ruling, the Special Court in Tiruppur has sentenced six individuals to two years in prison for subjecting a cook at a government noon meal center in Thirumalaigoundanpalayam to untouchability practices in 2018. The accused, identified as Palanisamy, Sakthivel, Shanmugam, Velliangiri, Duraisamy, and Seethalakshmi, received concurrent sentences under various legal provisions, including the Indian Penal Code’s Section 147 for rioting and Sections 3(1)(za)E and 3(1)(zc) of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, which pertain to forcing an individual to leave a place and imposing socio-economic boycotts. In addition to their sentences, each was fined ₹5,000 on three counts.
The case was brought to light by the Tamil Nadu Untouchability Eradication Front and several SC/ST welfare organizations, advocating for the cook, identified as Paapaal, who has been in her position for 12 years. The local Government High School, attended by 75 students from Classes 6 to 10, faced disruptions as only 32 students consumed the provided noon meal for three consecutive days; the other students opted to bring food from home due to social pressures stemming from the families of intermediate caste members who objected to Paapaal’s presence.
Initially, attempts were made by the Education and Revenue Departments to transfer Paapaal to resolve the situation. However, she stood firm against these actions, rallying support from SC/ST welfare organizations that empowered her to pursue legal action. Following her complaint to the Sevoor Police, authorities booked a total of 88 individuals, with charges formally registered against 36 under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
This landmark judgment, delivered after a series of adjournments, has been welcomed by various SC/ST welfare groups who view it as a critical step towards addressing caste-based discrimination and ensuring justice for marginalized communities. Advocates emphasize that the ruling underscores the importance of diligence in fighting social inequalities and protecting the rights of those who face discrimination.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in educational environments where caste dynamics can severely impact the functioning of schools. The decision is seen not only as a legal victory but also as a catalyst for broader conversations regarding social equity in Tamil Nadu and beyond, particularly in contexts involving public services such as education.
As advocacy groups continue to push for systemic change, this case serves as a reminder of the resilience exhibited by individuals like Ms. Paapaal, who confront social injustice head-on. The implications of this judgment may resonate across various spheres, influencing policy and societal attitudes towards caste-based discrimination.
This ruling marks a profound moment in the fight against untouchability, reinforcing the need for continued vigilance and action to eradicate such practices from society.
Published – November 28, 2025 08:56 pm IST
Categories: Coimbatore
Tags: SC/ST Act, Untouchability, Tamil Nadu, Discrimination, Education, Justice
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/six-sentenced-to-two-years-under-scst-act-in-tiruppur-for-shunning-cook-of-govt-school-noon-meal-centre/article70334878.ece
Category : Coimbatore
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Publish Date: 2025-11-28 20:56:00
