High Court Orders Tamil Nadu to End Caste Bias in Water Access

In a significant move to uphold constitutional values, the Madras High Court has taken action against caste-based discrimination in water access. The court addressed a case originating in the Tenkasi district of Tamil Nadu, where marginalized communities have faced inequitable access to public water resources. The court’s decision, prompted by a bail petition from an elderly woman from the Scheduled Caste community, condemns the denial of drinking water to SC residents as “pathetic and surprising.” Justice Dr. R.N. Manjula underscored that access to clean drinking water is a fundamental right. The court has directed statewide implementation of measures to eliminate discrimination in water access. The Tenkasi District Collector was previously instructed to ensure fair water distribution. The court also invoked sections of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act to ensure fair treatment. All officials in Tamil Nadu must now replicate the practices of Thalaivankottai village, with a compliance report expected in three weeks. The case is scheduled for its next hearing on August 21.