Kausalya, who lost her husband to caste-related violence last year, has transformed into a woman with a steely resolve and a strident voice.
She has also become a symbol of resistance against caste-related atrocities. In an interview, Ms. Kausalya shares her thoughts about the challenges she faced while pursuing the case against those responsible for her husband’s murder, including her own parents. Excerpts:
How do you respond to the claim that the influence of caste over the society is waning and that the focus on stray incidents of violence is unwarranted...
It is not true.
Those are the very people who indulge in caste-related discrimination. Sometimes, caste-related discrimination is so strong that people dare to commit murders. Caste discrimination still exists in this society.
Having lost your husband to caste-related violence and with your parents among the accused, what were the challenges you had to face while pursing the case?
Many people discouraged me from following up on the case.
They said since my husband was no more, there was no point in putting my parents in the witness box.
They tried character assassination too, saying I should not pursue the case if I claimed to be an activist against violation of human rights. But, I was alone in my pain, and they knew nothing about it.
Though you were determined in pursuing the case, wasn’t it a testing experience, especially when you had to testify against your parents?
I wanted justice for my husband and decided to go to any extent for it.
What has been your source of strength all through your journey? Did any one person or book had had a lasting impact on you?
Several individuals met me after the incident last year and extended their support to me.
They were from various organisations and they cheered me up and gave support for my case.
It won’t be right on my part to name one or two individuals. Even in the case of books, I have been reading and they have collectively shaped my thoughts.
You have been advocating a separate law against caste-related atrocities, especially those targeting inter-caste couples and their marriages. Why is that important? There are several strong Acts in place already...
There are laws but they have not been implemented properly.
I am for a new law specifically targeting inter-caste marriages because only strong punishments can act as deterrence.
If punishments are strong, there are chances that those against inter-caste marriages would think more than once before committing a crime.
What is the reason behind Shankar Thanipayirchi Maiyyam that you are running?
It is a centre which aims to help young students in their education.
Through tuition classes, I intend to help them in their education. I hope they will grow up as sensitive boys and girls.
