The fight against discrimination may help villagers in Patiala get extra funds for the development of their areas. In a social cause initiated by Patiala MP of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Dr Dharamvira Gandhi, financial assistance will be provided under Member Parliament Local Area Development (MPLAD) funds to panchayats that overcome discrimination, for the development of the village.
Almost every village across the state has different gurdwaras and cremation grounds for the upper and lower castes.
Two days after Gandhi launched a campaign to spread awareness among people regarding social segregation, the panchayat of Dakaunda village has passed a resolution to build a common cremation ground for all villagers.
The Dakaunda village earlier had two separate cremation grounds for Jats and Dalits respectively.
“The idea cropped up when I received several applications from Dalits seeking funds for development of their cremation ground. Presence of separate places of worship, dharamshalas and cremation grounds for Dalits in villages across the state is a blot on humanity,” Gandhi said.
He added, “With a motive to encourage the panchayats, grants will be provided under MPLAD funds for the development of villages which come forward to end such prejudices among communities.”