Activists of a caste-based non-political organisation on Monday staged protest demonstrations in Patiala against the controversial remarks made by sociologist Ashish Nandy on SC and STs at the Jaipur Literature Festival.
The Chamar Mahan Sabha members in
protest burnt an effigy of the author at the Dukhniwaran Gurdwara Chowk in Patiala.
"It is unfortunate that an educated individual and a sociologist like Nandy have made such an irresponsible statement," president of the outfit, Paramjit Singh Kainth told reporters in Patiala.
"Anyone who insults the SC, ST and OBCs will not be tolerated. Nandy should be arrested and a case be registered against him in Punjab," said Kainth.
Nandy had kicked up a storm at the Jaipur Literature Festival on Saturday with his remarks that "most of the corrupt come from the OBCs, SCs and STs", drawing the ire of many prominent figures including BSP chief Mayawati. An FIR was also lodged against him following his statement.
Nandy had later issued a clarification, saying he was trying to make the point that corruption among Dalits was noticeable, while that of the rich was not.