Allegations of caste-based discrimination have emerged from Dumerchuan village under Turekela block in Bolangir district, where residents of a Dalit hamlet claim that essential civic amenities have been deliberately disrupted.
According to villagers, the piped drinking water supply to their locality was stopped a few days ago. They further alleged that street lights in the hamlet were switched off, plunging the area into darkness and causing severe inconvenience to families, including children and the elderly.
Members of the Dalit community have accused certain villagers of discriminating against them on the basis of caste. They claim that while other parts of the village continue to receive electricity and water supply, their hamlet has been deprived of these basic facilities.
One resident stated that attempts to access borewell water were also allegedly obstructed. Families say they are struggling without clean drinking water and proper lighting on internal roads, affecting safety and daily life.
Despite approaching local authorities multiple times, residents allege that their grievances remain unaddressed. They have urged the government to intervene and restore basic amenities, warning that they may resort to protests if their demands are not met.
With Maha Shivratri observed on Sunday and an optional holiday in the district on Monday, government offices remain closed. Officials are expected to take up the matter once offices reopen. Authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the allegations.