Access to a basic necessity like water remains a deep-rooted issue and a long-standing symbol of social inequality. To uphold constitutional values, the Judiciary has once again stepped in to protect the rights of marginalised communities. A recent case from Tamil Nadu’s Tenkasi district has brought the issue of caste-based discrimination to light. Condemning the societal disparity in access to public water resources, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court directed statewide implementation to ensure there is no discrimination in fetching water.
In response to a bail petition filed by an elderly woman from the Scheduled Caste community, Justice Dr. R.N. Manjula passed the order. The 65-year-old woman had highlighted shocking instances of timely denial of drinking water access in Thalaivankottai village. The court described the denial of water access to SC residents as “pathetic and surprising in this scientific age,” and reaffirmed that clean drinking water is a fundamental right and intrinsic to the right to life.
The court had previously directed the Tenkasi District Collector to ensure that SC people were not forced to wait until others had collected water. A compliance report filed earlier confirmed the installation of at least 17 new public taps and the formation of a monitoring committee to ensure equality.
Meanwhile, Justice Manjula appreciated the prompt measures taken and emphasized that authorities must not wait for formal complaints. She also noted that caste-based discrimination often goes unreported. Meanwhile, the court invoked sections 3(1)(za) and 21 of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act to ensure fair treatment.
The judge has further directed officials across Tamil Nadu to implement the method followed by Thalaivankottai village and urban area within three weeks and file a report in this regard. The case is scheduled to be heard next on August 21.
