A section of lawyers staged a demonstration in front of the Collectorate here on Monday, demanding the release of 32 Dalit MLAs reportedly kept in captivity by some persons in Chennai.
Addressing the gathering, Social Lawyers Front State president C. Soundara Pandian said that reports in the media revealed that the 32 Dalit MLAs were herded in a remote place in Chennai. “If it is true, they should be released immediately. Let them vote for a Chief Minister candidate according to their wish. We will not interfere in their rights. But they should be allowed to function freely and independently. The district administration should take action in this connection,” he demanded.
Of the 134 All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MLAs, 32 were Dalit MLAs, but due recognition was not yet given to them, Mr. Soundara Pandian said.
“The new government should give proper representation for Dalits in the ministry. At least, seven minister posts should be offered to Dalit MLAs. If the new government fails to offer them the posts, they should boycott the government,” he insisted.
Later, the lawyers submitted a petition to the officials at the Collectorate in this connection.
