In a key observation, Justice Anita Sumanth of the Madras High Court has contended that the ferocity shown by people on grounds of caste, is also because of the benefits accorded by the State to different caste groups and therefore, the blame cannot be laid entirely upon the ancient Varna Dharma (division based on caste) propounded by the Rig Veda.
The judge made the observation while disposing of quo warranto pleas against Tamil Nadu Youth Welfare and Sports Development Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department Minister P.K. Sekarbabu and Nilgiris Member of Parliament A. Raja over the Santana Dharma row.
Lamenting that divisions based on caste were deeply entrenched in the State though the present day caste system prevailing in the society was less than a century old, the judge rued that “individuals” were seen to be fanning casteist passions which was not in the interests of the State or its people.
