Dalits seek nod for temple fete

A group of Dalits belonging to Pilla Palayam near Thathaiyangar Pettai on Monday thronged the Collectorate here demanding the permission to conduct Madurai Veeran-Muthu Mariamman temple festival. Presenting a petition to the Collector K.S. Palanisamy, they said the temple, along with Muthu Mariamman temple, was locked about three years ago following a dispute over using a path with a group of Dalits of another caste. However, Muthu Mariamman temple had been opened a few days ago for annual festival. Similarly, permission should be accorded for opening Madurai Veeran-Muthu Mariamman temple.— Special Correspondent