One source, different taps: Caste-based discrimination still prevalent

BAJURA: People belonging to different castes are accustomed to using water from separate taps despite there being only one water source in Peepal village, Chhededaha Rural Municipality-2 of Bajura district.

The village lodges people belonging to Kunwar, Thapa, Kumal and Luwar castes. Kunwars and Thapas in the village have been using one tap while Kumals and Luwars are using one tap each at the local water source.

The latter two castes, belonging to the Dalit community, face discrimination from the so-called upper castes in the village.

Tara Kumal, a local resident, lamented that they are reproached even when their children touch the taps designated for the "upper caste" people.

"We, Dalits, have been facing this racial oppression from generations. We are disrespected in public water sources, public inns, in feasts and festivals," said another local, Rudre Luwar.

Cases like these are prevalent not only in Peepal village but also in other villages across the district.

Even government funded projects are seen promoting the discrimination by building separate taps for people belonging to different castes, in addition to building a separate tap for menstruating women.

Many government as well as non-government organisations have been working in the district against caste-based discrimination, but to little effect.

Government of Nepal devised the Caste-based Discrimination and Untouchability (Offence and Punishment) Act, 2068 BS on May 24, 2011, which was put into effect on May 26, 2011.