Rajasthan: Controversy over temple entry in Churu: Dalit youth allegedly assaulted, tension escalates after video goes viral

An incident took place in Sadasar village, Sardarshahar. Youths who went to attend a pilgrimage after the Bhagwat Katha were allegedly assaulted on the basis of caste discrimination. Police filed an FIR after the video went viral.
Published on: Sep 22, 2025, 2:50 pm
Churu, Rajasthan: A serious controversy has erupted over entry into a temple in Sadasar village, Sardarshahar tehsil, in the district. It is alleged that some young men from the Dalit community were not only prevented from entering the temple, but were also assaulted and subjected to casteist remarks. A video of the incident went viral on social media, and tension has gripped the area, prompting police to register a case and begin an investigation.
What is the whole matter?
The incident occurred during a procession marking the conclusion of a Bhagwat Katha event held in the village. Following the procession, 19-year-old Kanaram Meghwal, along with his friends Sandeep, Mukesh, Vishnu, and Kaluram, went to the village’s Thakurji temple to pay obeisance. According to the FIR filed by the victim, some people already present at the temple premises stopped them, citing caste issues.
Allegations of assault and racial slurs
According to the complaint, when the youths protested this discrimination, the accused, Surajdas Swami, Shankarlal, Himmat Kumar, and Anil, began abusing them. The dispute escalated to the point where the accused allegedly assaulted them with slaps and punches. Kanaram also alleged that Shankarlal attacked his hand with a stick, injuring him and causing him to fall. The FIR also states that the accused shouted threats to the crowd, saying, “We will not allow any Dalit to enter the temple.”
Police initiated action
As soon as the video of the incident went viral, the administration swung into action. Based on the victim’s complaint, a case has been registered at the Bhanipura police station under relevant sections. Meanwhile, Dalits, enraged by the incident, protested outside the police station, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused. Police have been deployed to maintain peace in the village. Police officials have assured a fair investigation and strict action against the culprits.