A neglected community

It is disquieting to note that members of the 'Rishi' community living in Shalikha upazila of Magura have been facing social discrimination due to their so called 'low caste' identity. Mainly cobblers by profession, providing an important, basic service, these people are subjected to humiliation and ostracism by the local upper caste Hindus and even Muslims.  

Our paper has brought into sharp focus the predicament of this minority group. They are not invited to social programmes; they cannot eat or drink sitting in a restaurant or a tea stall; even local barbers do not want to serve them. Most unfortunately, their children are discouraged from enrolling into schools and are often badly treated by the teachers. Sometimes, they are made to clean the school toilets. We wonder how teachers can indulge in such disgraceful and discriminatory behaviour. They are supposed to inculcate principles of respect and equality among students.

According to our Constitution, all citizens are entitled to equal rights irrespective of the caste, creed, and faith they may belong to. We urge the government to take necessary steps to curb such caste-biased practices and if needed provide legal protection to this minority community. Furthermore, there should be special development programmes aimed at improving their socio-economic standing.